The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for six areas in the UK—Angus, Perth and Kinross, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, and Highland—warning of an impending snowstorm expected on Tuesday. Residents in these regions are advised to prepare emergency kits containing essential items to help manage potential power outages and cold conditions.
According to the Met Office, simple preparations can significantly ease the impact of power cuts. Recommended items include torches with spare batteries, a mobile phone power bank, and other necessary supplies. British Gas recommends keeping at least three days’ worth of drinking water, non-perishable food, medications, and warm blankets readily accessible.
Additional advice from British Gas highlights the importance of keeping a torch, extra batteries, and a phone charger nearby. Although a heavy snowfall is unlikely to disrupt heating, having sleeping bags, blankets, and warm clothing on hand is prudent.
READ MORE: UK Urged to Stockpile Three Key Foods Ahead of Eight-Hour Snowstorm
READ MORE: Why DWP Cold Weather Payments Are Being Paid in West Midlands but Not Birmingham
Cold temperatures raise the risk of frozen pipes, which can burst and cause water damage. To prevent this, households should know the location of their mains water stopcock—usually found under the kitchen sink or in a cupboard on an exterior wall—and be prepared to shut off the water supply quickly if needed.
The Met Office’s safety tips during the snow event include maintaining a consistent thermostat temperature day and night, turning off electrical heaters and extinguishing fires before bedtime, and keeping pets warm and secure. Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing can help prevent frozen pipes. Residents are urged to stay indoors, dress warmly, close interior doors to retain heat, and seek assistance by calling the British Red Cross Support Line at 0808 196 3651 if needed.