New storm names announced in preparation for the upcoming storm season
- Written by
Lauren Legate- Published
- September 4, 2025
1st September marks the official start of autumn in meteorology, as well as the beginning of the yearly ‘storm season.’
It also introduces a fresh list of storm names, selected with input from the public.
The Met Office began assigning names to storms in 2015. In the UK, storms receive names when they are expected to bring significant disruption or damage that could trigger an amber or red weather warning. This assessment considers both the potential impact and the likelihood of the event.
Storms are usually named because of strong winds, though other factors such as heavy rain or snow — which can cause flooding or travel issues — are also taken into account.
Having a single, standardised system for naming storms helps ensure clear and consistent communication about severe weather, making it easier for people to stay prepared and safe.
Rebekah Hicks, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, says the approach is effective: “For Storm Floris just a few weeks ago, surveys showed that 93% of people in the amber warning area were aware of the alerts, with 83% taking steps to prepare.”
How many named storms occurred in the 2024/25 season?
During the 2024/25 storm season, the UK recorded six named storms. The most recent, Storm Floris, struck in early August and stood out for its unusually strong winds during the summer.
By comparison, the season was much quieter than 2023/24, which saw 12 named storms — the highest number since the naming system was introduced in 2015.
Climate change is intensifying weather patterns, and a warmer climate means rainfall events are often heavier, raising the risk of flooding.
The Met Office also shared this week that according to provisional data the UK has experienced its hottest summer on record, and the ripple effects could make the upcoming storm season significantly more dangerous.
One of many concerns is the dry, compacted ground left behind by long hot spells. When heavy rain does arrive, the soil struggles to absorb it, causing water to pool on the surface and leading to surface water flooding, especially in built-up areas.
To help you stay more informed and proactive, Previsico hosted a timely webinar where industry experts will unpack the impact of Storm Floris and discuss how businesses, local authorities, and insurers can better prepare for the upcoming storm season.