{
  "id": 16288920,
  "title": "The people on standby when a storm strikes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/24/the-people-on-standby-when-a-storm-strikes",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-24T05:44:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "BBC Science",
    "slug": "bbc-science",
    "url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c6gqwz79ylw4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "While most individuals prepare to remain indoors as another storm looms, others are gearing up to venture into the storm's path. Storm Boelo is anticipated to unleash strong winds and disrupt sections of Northern Ireland this weekend. Those responsible for safeguarding lives and addressing the aftermath face lengthy shifts, hazardous circumstances, and urgent requests for assistance at any given moment. In anticipation of the storm, the Department for Infrastructure reported that their teams have been inspecting and clearing road ditches, observing river levels and tidal surges, and positioning a portion of temporary flood defenses. Regional Community Resilience Groups have also been briefed on the expected weather patterns to enable appropriate preparations, according to a spokesperson.\n\nStorms necessitate readiness for unpredictable situations. Volunteers, tradespeople, and other personnel are on standby, ensuring their vehicles are fueled and equipment is operational, awaiting any summons to aid. Darren Harper, the Belfast area commander for the Community Rescue Service, whose volunteers stand ready to respond to emergencies, emphasized that severe weather can unleash heavy rainfall, rising water levels, and flooding. Their primary concern remains the public's safety. To be prepared, volunteers meticulously inspect vehicles and equipment, ready to assist partner agencies and emergency services upon request. Harper stressed the importance of not underestimating the risks associated with severe weather, particularly near rivers and flood-prone regions. He advised adhering to weather warnings, avoiding flooded roads and paths, and staying clear of swollen rivers. Never put oneself in danger by entering any floodwater.\n\nCharles Howard, a roofer, recounted how storms have historically brought a surge in emergency repair calls. While he once cherished the influx of work, the regularity of storms now frustrates him. During a storm last year, Howard received around 800 messages from individuals in need of assistance. Preparing for severe weather involves stocking his van with spare roof tiles and clearing his schedule to accommodate emergency calls. Howard explained that if a particularly severe storm is anticipated, he loads his van with salvage tiles and other necessary materials. He advised homeowners to inspect their properties before and after storms, especially for loose or damaged tiles, as dislodged ridge tiles can fall onto driveways and gardens, potentially damaging vehicles.\n\nCallum Kirk, a tree surgeon operating in the Newtownabbey area and covering much of Belfast, described how storms disrupt his routine work. Instead of planned tasks, he must be prepared to respond to fallen trees and other hazardous situations. Whenever a storm approaches, Kirk and his team remain on standby, prepared to assist anyone affected by fallen trees or other dangerous conditions. Preparing for severe weather involves sharpening equipment, even if there is no certainty of being called out. Kirk explained that much of his work occurs after the storm has passed, as fallen trees need to be removed from roofs, garages, and other properties. He cautioned that this work can be particularly hazardous, urging homeowners to remain vigilant about potentially unstable trees, particularly as the storm season approaches.",
  "summary": "While most people are preparing to stay indoors as another storm approaches, others are getting ready to head straight into it.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}