Adapting to Increased Storminess

While gales and storms are a common occurrence over winter months in Scotland, it is projected that by 2080 the intensity of storms will increase, with some models also projecting an increased frequency.

While gales and storms are a common occurrence over winter months in Scotland, it is projected that by 2080 the intensity of storms will increase, with some models also projecting an increased frequency. While there is uncertainty in some of the models, history shows us the damage that extreme weather events can cause. The Great Storm of October 1987 caused significant devastation across the UK; high gusts of winds of up to 100 mph resulted in infrastructure damage with trees falling on roads and bringing down utility lines. Thunderstorms can bring severe damage to properties, hailstones can damage roofs and tiles, dent vehicles, damage glasshouse and bring down vegetation. Strong winds can cause mechanical damage to crops, which will affect growth, yields and pest and disease incidence. Increased susceptibility to disease affects harvest quality, and crop may not meet the requirements of its intended market. While plants can adapt and be resilient to high winds, plant specific issues may still occur. Examples of this include, leaf stripping, folding, abrasion and sandblasting.

The UK Met Office Storm Centre names and dates storms that impact the UK and provides updates on storms, which are forecasted and monitors storminess. The Met Office reported that over a three month period, between mid-December 2013 and mid-February 2014, there were 12 major storm events making this the stormiest period the UK has seen in 20 years. Since then the UK has experienced numerous storms of comparable or more severe intensities, causing widespread disruption.

Download the adaptation checklist to see what additional actions you may want to consider to improve your farms resilience to increased storminess.

Issues

Health & Safety

Storms, strong winds and high rainfall put staff and livestock health and safety at risk.

Tree Damage

Falling trees can block roads, damage fences and hedges and bring down utility lines as well as damage nearby buildings or vehicles.

Infrastructure Damage

High winds, heavy rain and hailstones can damage buildings, utilities, roads and other farm structures

Flooding of Coastal Areas

Storm surges and rising sea levels are likely to increase flooding low-lying fields resulting in crop loss and soil damage.

Crop & Soil Damage

High winds and heavy rainfall can reduce crop yields due to stem and tissue damage, increased disease incidence and soil erosion.

What can you do now to help future proof the business?

Many of the impacts discussed above are not new, however, climate change is exacerbating the impact on the agricultural community. Implementing measures to adapt against changing rain patterns now can help reduce risks and aid the longevity of your farming business and the productivity of your land.

Alongside monitoring weather forecasts, SEPA’s live flooding information page will help you to plan ahead and mitigate any negative effects of flooding. Signing up to SEPA’s ‘Floodline’ service will ensure you receive messages when flooding is forecast in your area. Flood maps can be viewed online so that plans can be made to adapt to areas, which have an increased risk of flooding.

Further information:

Download Climate Change Adaptation for Agriculture: Is your farm ready?

This document provides a climate change adaptation checklist for your business so that various climate change adaptation measures can be considered. This will help you determine the most suitable and effective methods for improving resilience to climate change on your farm. Additionally, the topics examined throughout this document will provide suggestions and ideas that can aid in the development of an Emergency Action Plan for your business.

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