The spring and summer may have been mostly hot and dry, but this particular manifestation of a changing climate is not the only one we have to contend with. While such weather may bring the challenge of water shortages, there will be other times when high winds, storms and heavy rain will cause major problems.
Wind can lead to significant roof damage, and in a climate where storms will be stronger, that is only likely to increase. For this reason, attention should be paid to the materials used in homes and commercial premises, with box profile roofing sheets offering a robust option that will do much to withstand rough weather conditions.
Lest anyone think our part of the world might be spared extreme weather, the recent sighting of a ‘twister’ above West Yorkshire should be cause to think again. While the widely-reported whirlwind seen over Huddersfield and Halifax could only be officially classed as a tornado if it hit the ground, such a phenomenon does occur in Britain and may do so more frequently.
Indeed, the damage they can do even in the UK (where they are much smaller than the American versions featured in storm-chaser films like Twisters) has been well-documented. Recent cases in the north of England include the damage suffered by over 100 homes in Stalybridge, Greater Manchester, during Storm Gerrit in 2022.
Tornadoes have always been with us, of course. But climate change means more storms, due to the fact that a warmer planet means more water will evaporate. Extra heat and humidity mean greater rainfall, more powerful winds and increased thunderstorms.
Right now, twisters like the one seen over Halifax and Huddersfield are the exception and the hot, dry conditions of this year are the other side of the climate change coin. But those constructing new homes need to be very aware that more robust construction and roofing will be required to meet the challenge.