What's happened
The Met Office, Met Éireann and KNMI have announced the 2026-27 list of named storms. Austen, Boelo, Chloe and 18 others will be used between September 2026 and August 2027 to help communicate risks of severe weather across the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- The naming of storms serves a practical safety function, giving forecasts a clear focal point for warnings.
- The list honors figures and moments from member regions, reinforcing local connections to weather events.
- Expect continued public engagement in naming, and potential discussions about gender parity and regional representation in future lists.
Impact: Clear weather communication will likely drive more proactive preparations among the public and local authorities.
Forecast: Storm-tracking and warning systems will remain effective as long as naming continues to be supported by the coordinating agencies.
How we got here
The three meteorological services invite public nominations for storm names each year. Names are chosen to reflect communities, historical figures and public sentiments, with the list running alphabetically and omitting Q, U, X, Y and Z.
Our analysis
BBC Business reports the formal list and rationale; The Guardian highlights public suggestions and collaboration with Aardman; Independent provides fuller context on the 2025-26 season and the 90th anniversary of Met Éireann; The Scotsman lists the names and origins; Met Office and KNMI press materials underpin the naming framework.
Go deeper
- Which names are from each country this year?
- What new names reflect in local communities this season?
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