A power cut checklist before the first storm of winter
Long power cuts are rare, but they happen most in winter. In January 2026 Storm Goretti left nearly 170,000 properties in Wales, the South West of England and the Midlands without power, many for more than a day.
Ten minutes now
- Find the torch and test it. Put fresh batteries beside it.
- Charge a power bank and leave it charged.
- Find a radio that runs on batteries or a wind-up handle.
- Write down 105, the free number for power cuts in England, Scotland and Wales, and any numbers you'd need.
- Put blankets where you can find them in the dark.
- Stock food that needs no cooking for 3 days.
- Check on someone older, and help them join the Priority Services Register.
When the power goes off
Follow our power cut guide: check if it's just your home, turn off appliances, use a torch rather than candles, and call 105.
Source: Gathered.