As autumn approaches and the likelihood of impactful weather increases, the Met Office, in partnership with Met Éireann and KNMI, is preparing a new list of storm names for the 2025/26 season.
But how are these names chosen, and why do we name storms at all? Here, we explain the process behind naming storms, the criteria involved, and the benefits this system brings to the public.
The process of naming storms
The annual list of storm names is not created in isolation. Instead, it is a collaborative effort involving the public and our partners in Ireland and the Netherlands. Suggestions are invited from members of the public all year round, as well as from Met Éireann and KNMI. This ensures the list reflects a broad range of names from across the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands.
Once all suggestions are gathered, a dedicated group reviews the names. However, not every name submitted makes it onto the final list. Several important factors are considered to ensure the names are suitable for use in weather communications.
READ MORE: Are storms in August unusual and why do we name them?
Criteria for selecting storm names
Pronunciation is a key consideration. Names that are too difficult to pronounce may be excluded, although it is important to remember that some names may be unfamiliar due to the involvement of partners from Northern Ireland and the Netherlands.
The group also examines whether a name has different meanings in different countries, which could lead to confusion or unintended associations. Names connected to significant public figures, or those that could be considered controversial or political, are avoided. Similarly, any name that has already been retired as a hurricane name will not be used again.
To maintain impartiality, storms are never named after private companies or brands. Importantly, the frequency with which a name is submitted does not influence its selection; it is the suitability of the name that matters most.
When are new storm names announced?
Since the launch of the ‘Name our Storms’ initiative in 2015, a new list of names has been published each September. The list covers the period from early September to late August the following year, aligning with the seasonal increase in low-pressure systems and the potential for named storms.
The latest list of named storms will be revealed on Monday, September 1.
READ MORE: When is a hurricane not a hurricane?
Why do we name storms?
The primary reason for naming storms is to provide a consistent and authoritative message about approaching severe weather. By using a single, recognisable name, communication through media partners and government agencies becomes clearer and more effective. This helps the public to better understand the risks, take appropriate action, and ultimately keep themselves, their property, and their businesses safe.
When is a storm named?
In the UK, a storm is named when it is expected to cause disruption or damage significant enough to warrant an amber or red warning. This decision is based on the National Severe Weather Warnings service, which considers both the potential impact of the weather and the likelihood of those impacts occurring.
While storms are most often named due to the threat of strong winds, other weather types are also considered. For example, heavy rain that could lead to flooding, as advised by agencies such as the Environment Agency, SEPA, and Natural Resources Wales, or significant snowfall, may also prompt the naming of a storm. In this way, the system ensures that the public is alerted to a range of severe weather threats, not just wind.
Naming storms is a vital part of how the Met Office communicates severe weather risks. Through a careful and inclusive process, we ensure that each name is suitable, recognisable, and effective in helping people stay safe when severe weather approaches.
We'll be releasing our new list of storm names for the season ahead on Monday 1 September. But how do storm names get chosen? 🤔
— Met Office (@metoffice) August 27, 2025
Watch Alex explain ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/rM1MpcDxMi
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