Severe Weather Alert 2 to 8 January 2025

Severe weather warning: Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) activated

With temperatures dropping, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is now active to support anyone sleeping rough during freezing conditions. SWEP is used by local councils to provide emergency accommodation for homeless individuals during severe weather. This ensures that those vulnerable to the cold can access warm, safe shelter.

If you see someone in need of help:

- Send an alert to StreetLink online - https://thestreetlink.org.uk/start
- Contact StreetLink at 0300 500 0914
- Call 999 in a medical emergency

We encourage all residents to take precautions during cold weather and to ask for help if they need it. Together, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community during the winter months.

Thank you for your cooperation and stay warm.

Weather updates

Stay informed about the latest weather conditions and forecasts:

• visit the Met Office website for up-to-date weather information
• follow RBKC on social media for local weather alerts and updates
• tune in to local news and radio stations for weather reports and advice

London weather warning

Amber cold weather health alerts are in place for all regions of England from 12pm Thursday 2 January until 12pm Wednesday 8 January. To find out more information, visit London weather health alerts page.

Emergency contact numbers

• Housing: 020 7361 3008
• Social Services: 020 7361 3013
• Environmental Health, including noise or nuisance: 020 7361 3002
• Switchboard: 020 7361 3000

Health and wellbeing

Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions. To help stay healthy:

• keep your home warm: set your heating to at least 18°C
• wear several layers of clothing to stay warm
• have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day
• say active indoors. Moving around every hour can help keep you warm
• check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours and relatives to ensure they are safe and well

Travel and transport

Severe weather can impact travel and transport services. Always check for updates before you travel:

• visit the Transport for London (TfL) website for the latest travel information
• check road conditions and any disruptions on local and national road networks
• consider alternative routes or means of travel if necessary
• ensure your vehicle is winter-ready, with adequate anti-freeze, screen wash, and tyres in good condition

Gritting roads in the borough

During the ongoing cold spell, we are committed to maintaining the safety of our streets and roads. Priority routes and vulnerable locations are being treated overnight to ensure they remain accessible and safe for everyone.

To ensure the safety of all residents, street sweeping will be suspended in areas where gritting has taken place until the severe weather has passed. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding and patience.

Home and property

Take steps to protect your home and property during cold weather:

• insulate pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting
• keep a supply of salt or grit to clear paths and driveways
• ensure your roof and gutters are in good condition to prevent leaks and damage from snow and ice
• be mindful of fire safety when using heaters and electric blankets