Scots caught short by winter weather

Over half of Scots were unprepared for severe winter weather like Storm Darcy, according to new research by the Met Office.

Blizzards brought chaos to Tayside and Fife earlier this year after heavy snowfall, but the study shows many felt they weren’t prepared for the icy conditions.

Of the 2,000 adults across Britain who were surveyed, 44% said they were caught out due to a lack of preparation.

Many told the Met Office of activities being interrupted, while a quarter dealt with power cuts and 19% experienced a boiler breakdown.

Storm Darcy saw schools closed and roads blocked across Fife and Dundee in February and March.

Almost half of respondents suggested that disruption to travel caused them the most problems.

The Met Office said this highlighted the importance of preparing vehicles for winter travel and making contingency plans.

The survey comes as the Met Office launches its #WeatherReady campaign – supported by the UK Government – aiming to help the public prepare for potentially severe weather.

It highlights the importance of basic steps like checking the weather forecast daily, which over half of those surveyed said they do.

Three-quarters of people questioned said they felt prepared for winter weather this year, with over half of people adjusting their heating systems to help stave off the cold.

Paymaster General Penny Mordaunt MP said that by following simple steps, we can reduce the impact of severe weather.

She added: “We all have a role to play in minimising the impact it can have on us.”