The Met Office has announced the names of the storms for the upcoming 2024/25 season. The storm naming system, initiated in 2015, typically covers the period from early September to late August the following year. This period aligns with the start of autumn. The 2024/25 storm list includes names such as James, Lewis, and Mavis, paying tribute to key figures in the Met Office’s 170-year history.
James is named after Group Captain James Stagg, recognized for his weather advice during the D-Day landings. Lewis honours Lewis Fry Richardson, who developed methods for using computers in weather forecasting. Mavis is a nod to Mavis Hinds, a pioneer in early Met Office computer work.
Storm Lilian was the latest system to impact the UK, reaching wind speeds exceeding 70mph in the north of England and Wales. It marked the 12th named storm of the 2023/24 season and the first to bear the letter L. Will Lang, in charge of severe weather responses at the Met Office, highlighted the significance of honouring historical contributions to weather science as the organization celebrates its 170th anniversary.
Meteorologists from the Met Office, Met Eireann in Ireland, and KNMI in the Netherlands collaboratively name storms to enhance communication during severe weather events. The new storm list for 2024/25 includes names like Ashley, Bert, Conall, Darragh, and Eowyn, among others. The chosen names aim to streamline the dissemination of critical weather information to the public.
As the UK braces for potential storm impacts in the coming seasons, the Met Office’s storm identification system plays a crucial role in alerting and preparing communities for adverse weather conditions. The newly unveiled storm names provide a comprehensive overview of the potential weather events that could unfold in the year ahead.