How Have Ten Years of Storm Names Changed the UK?

Monday marks ten years since Storm Abigail became the first officially named UK storm, ushering in a new era for the UK weather system. The naming of storms has become vital for public safety and awareness, helping residents prepare for severe weather conditions. Since its introduction in November 2015, the UK Met Office, alongside Met Éireann and KNMI, has named a total of 70 storms, significantly enhancing communication around weather warnings and potential hazards.

Last updated: 13 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Storm Abigail's anniversary arrives, the storm naming system stands as a testament to improved communication and public awareness regarding severe weather. This initiative has proven effective, with high levels of public recognition of weather warnings during significant storms, such as Storm Floris in August 2025, where 93% of the amber alert area residents were aware of the warnings. This year, the Met Office has released new storm names for the upcoming season, continuing to engage the public through a list that reflects collaboration with the Irish and Dutch weather services.

Key takeaways

Storm Abigail was the first officially named UK storm, marked in November 2015.
Since then, 70 storms have been named, enhancing public safety and awareness.
Public engagement in storm naming has increased, with names from everyday people now included.

Timeline: how we got here

Here is a brief timeline highlighting key milestones in the UK storm naming initiative:

12–13 November 2015: Storm Abigail becomes the first officially named storm in the UK.
August 2025: Storm Floris impacts the UK, with 93% public awareness of the warnings.
October 2017: Storm Ophelia, an ex-hurricane, brings winds of up to 90mph.
January 2025: Storm Éowyn is recognised as the strongest windstorm in over a decade.
2023/24 Season: The busiest season, culminating with Storm Lilian.
2022/23 Season: The quietest season with only two named storms.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As we mark the ten-year anniversary of Storm Abigail, the Met Office has published a new list of storm names for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The naming process now includes suggestions from the public, showcasing names that resonate personally, such as "Bram" for Bram Stoker and "Ruby," named after a grandmother.

What was already established

The storm naming system has been in place since 2015, and it serves as a crucial public safety tool. The Met Office's approach to naming storms is based on their expected impact, which considers potential damage, disruption, and the likelihood of these effects occurring.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Storms named by the Met Office have a direct impact on consumers and households, primarily through weather warnings that inform residents of potential dangers. For instance, Storm Eunice in February 2022 led to significant structural damage in London, illustrating the physical risks storms pose to homes and infrastructure.

Businesses and jobs

Businesses also face challenges during storm season, particularly those reliant on outdoor activities or transportation. The increased frequency of severe storms can disrupt supply chains and affect hiring practices as businesses prepare for potential weather-related disruptions.

Policy and regulation

The storm naming initiative is supported by ongoing regulatory efforts to improve public safety during extreme weather events. The Met Office collaborates with devolved administrations to ensure that weather warnings are communicated effectively across the UK, with ongoing consultations aimed at enhancing these protocols.

Numbers that matter

70: Total number of storms named since the system began in 2015.
93%: Percentage of public awareness of storm warnings during Storm Floris.
267mm: Highest daily rainfall recorded during Storm Desmond in 2015.
84mph: Wind gusts from Storm Abigail, the first named storm.
90mph: Wind gusts from Storm Ophelia in October 2017.

Definitions and jargon buster

Storm Naming: The practice of assigning names to storms to improve public awareness and safety.
Amber Warning: A warning indicating that severe weather is likely and may affect travel and outdoor activities.
Red Warning: A warning that signifies extreme weather is expected, posing a danger to life and property.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, residents should remain alert as the storm season begins, keeping an eye on weather forecasts and warnings from the Met Office. This is particularly important as storms can develop rapidly.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the storm season progresses, it is advisable for households and businesses to prepare for potential impacts. This includes securing outdoor items and assessing emergency plans for severe weather events.

Signals to watch

Updates from the Met Office regarding new storm names and warnings.
Public engagement levels with storm warnings during significant events.
Trends in storm frequency and intensity as the climate continues to evolve.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about weather warnings through reputable sources such as the Met Office.
Prepare emergency kits for your household in case of severe weather.
Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could be affected by high winds.

Don’t

Ignore weather warnings; take them seriously to protect yourself and your property.
Assume that named storms will not affect your area; prepare regardless of location.

Checklist

Check your local weather forecast daily during storm season.
Have a communication plan in place for your family in case of extreme weather.
Review insurance policies to ensure coverage for storm damage.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the storm naming system has proven effective, predicting long-term trends in storm activity is complex due to natural fluctuations. Currently, there is no clear evidence suggesting an increase in the number or intensity of storms. However, rising sea levels and climate change are expected to exacerbate the impacts of windstorms, leading to a greater risk of flooding and storm surges along the UK coast.

Bottom line

The official naming of storms in the UK has greatly improved public safety and awareness over the past decade. As the storm season begins, it is crucial for residents to stay informed, prepare adequately, and remain vigilant against potential weather threats. Understanding the storm naming process and its implications helps ensure that communities are ready to face the challenges posed by severe weather. #StormNaming #WeatherPreparedness #UKStorms

FAQs

Why are storms named in the UK?

Storms are named in the UK to improve public awareness and safety, making it easier for people to remember and discuss severe weather warnings.

How many storms have been named since 2015?

Since the storm naming system began in November 2015, a total of 70 storms have been named by the UK Met Office and its partners.

What is the process for naming storms?

Storms are named based on their expected impact, including potential damage and disruption, with names suggested by the public and reflective of cultural diversity.