What are you entitled to if Storm Floris causes disruption?

As Scotland battens down the hatches amid “unseasonably” strong winds thanks to Storm Floris, experts have urged Scots to “know their rights” if they are affected by disruption.

The Met Office has issued an amber warning for much of Scotland until 11pm as Storm Floris rips across the country, with a second yellow alert in place until midnight.

Gusts of 50 to 70 mph are expected in many areas, which are likely to reach 90mph in exposed areas.

Forecasters have warned of travel disruption with many rail lines closing around midday, and a reduced timetable in place.

Power cuts are also possible in some affected areas.

Scotland

Amber weather warning in force as Scotland battered by 90mph winds

Scots have been urged to avoid travel as an amber warning for strong winds comes into force for much of Scotland.

What are you entitled to?

Advice Direct Scotland issued guidance to help Scots navigate the storm’s aftermath.

Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said Storm Floris is causing “serious disruption” across the country.

“We recognise the anxiety and uncertainty this brings to many households, and it is important that people know their rights,” he said.

Mr Forbes added that teams were on hand to offer free advice on issues such as power outages, travel cancellations, and property damage.

“Storms like Floris test our resilience, but no one should face these challenges alone. Your wellbeing is our priority, and we’re committed to helping communities stay safe, informed and supported every step of the way,” he said.

Mr Forbes urged anyone impacted to get in touch.

What should you do if you lose power?

If Scots lose electricity due to a storm, compensation varies depending on the storm’s category.

Advice Direct Scotland said Storm Floris will likely be classed as a Category One or Category Two event.

If the storm is Category Two and you are without power for 48 hours, initial compensation would be £80, with an additional £40 for every six hours without power, up to a maximum of £2,000.

Scots can call 105 for help during an unplanned power cut, which will connect them with the electricity network operator.

For gas cuts, customers might be entitled to compensation if the supply is cut off for more than 24 hours. They would receive £60 after the first 24 hours and another £60 for each following 24-hour period.

The gas network operator should contact consumers directly, but no compensation will be given if more than 30,000 homes were affected, the consumer caused the cut-off, or the operator took reasonable steps to prevent it.

If your gas was cut off, contact your gas network operator to find out how many homes were affected and if reasonable steps were taken to prevent it.

What to do if your transport is cancelled?

ScotRail passengers whose service is cancelled can request a refund with all administration charges waived.

Some bus companies may not issue refunds or compensation for severe weather disruption, but Advice Direct Scotland said customers can raise complaints with the bus companies directly.

Ferry companies are unlikely to offer compensation due to adverse weather, but refreshments should be provided if the ferry is delayed for more than 90 minutes.

Contact the ferry operator directly for more information.