Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance, is urging caravan owners to take precautionary measures ahead of Storm Austen, the first named storm of the 2026/27 season.
The storm is forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the UK from late on Thursday (22 October) and into Friday (23 October 2026), with the worst conditions expected in south-west England, south Wales and along the southern coastal counties of England.
Essential preparatory actions for caravan owners
A particular concern to caravan owners is the combination of damaging winds and heavy rain associated with this weather system, with further wet and windy weather forecast into the weekend.
Many caravan parks are located in coastal, low-lying areas, or near waterways, making them especially vulnerable to rapid water level rises during intense rainfall events. As a result, Compass is advising all caravan owners to take the following immediate steps:
Before the storm arrives:
- Secure or remove all external equipment, awnings, and loose items
- Check that your caravan is properly levelled and stabilised
- Ensure corner steadies and stabiliser legs are fully deployed
- Move caravans to higher ground where possible
- Clear gutters and drainage around your pitch
- Charge mobile devices and prepare emergency supplies
During the storm:
- Avoid travelling with caravans in high winds
- Stay away from caravan sites in flood-risk areas
- Monitor weather warnings and local authority advice
- Keep emergency contact numbers readily available
Insurance considerations:
- Review your policy coverage for storm and flood damage
- Document your caravan’s condition with photographs before the storm
- Ensure you have your policy number and emergency contact details accessible
- Report any damage to insurers as soon as safely possible
Kevin Minnear, head of Underwriting at Compass, said: “Storm Austen represents the first significant weather challenge of the new storm season, and caravan owners must not underestimate the risks. We’ve seen substantial increases in flood-related caravan insurance claims in recent years, and this week’s weather system has all the hallmarks of a potentially damaging event.
“The combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds poses a dual threat – not only from direct wind damage but also from flooding, which can cause devastating and costly damage to caravans. We’re particularly concerned about exposed coastal sites in the south-west and along the south coast, as well as parks near rivers and in low-lying areas.
“Storm Austen is the first named storm of the season, but it’s unlikely to be the last. Taking a few simple steps now – checking your caravan is secure, reviewing your cover and knowing what to do if the worst happens – means you can head into winter with real peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for whatever the coming months bring.”
Regional weather warnings
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind, in force from midnight on Thursday until midday on Friday, covering south Wales, south-west England and southern coastal counties of England. The warning highlights the chance of travel disruption, power cuts and injuries from flying debris.
Storm Austen will move from west to east through Friday before clearing into the North Sea, but further periods of wind and rain are likely through the weekend and into next week, with the heaviest rain more likely in western areas. Caravan owners across all regions should remain vigilant as forecasts can change at short notice.
For more information on specialist caravan and park home insurance, visit compass.co.uk.
