**Storm Floris Triggers Health Concerns as BBC GP Warns of Headaches and More**
As Storm Floris sweeps across the United Kingdom, authorities are not only urging citizens to take shelter from the hazardous conditions but also raising questions about the health impacts such turbulent weather can bring. Strong winds, torrential rain, and widespread disruption have dominated headlines, but one NHS GP is keen to spotlight a lesser-discussed consequence: a surge in weather-related health complaints, specifically headaches, fatigue, and joint pain.
Doctor Punam Krishan, well-known for her regular appearances on BBC’s Morning Live, issued a warning to the public this week — your sudden aches, tiredness, or throbbing headache may well be linked to the storm outside. Dr Krishan, who also keeps an active presence on social media, addressed her followers, particularly highlighting how dramatic shifts in weather – like those seen during Storm Floris – can manifest in unexpected physical symptoms.
“In Scotland, we’re experiencing the brunt of this storm, and with it comes not only travel chaos but also health challenges for many people,” said Dr Krishan. She went on to explain, “It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel a migraine building as a storm approaches. There’s scientific reasoning behind this: sudden drops in barometric pressure can prompt changes within your body, especially your head, setting off pain for those prone to migraines.”
But it isn’t just migraines making their unwelcome appearance. Dr Krishan revealed that her patients often report broader issues whenever the weather changes course dramatically. “From aching joints to sinus discomfort, a sense of brain fog, or persistent tiredness — these are all complaints that tend to increase when there’s a notable shift in air pressure,” she noted. “It’s quite remarkable how sensitive some people are; they almost sense the storm’s arrival before seeing any official weather warning.”
Meteorologists have kept a close eye on Storm Floris, which has prompted both yellow and amber warnings from the Met Office. Heavy rain combined with gusts of up to 85mph have brought disruption to public transport, caused fallen trees, and resulted in flight cancellations — and the advice remains to avoid travel wherever possible. These conditions are expected to pose risks until at least midnight, with Scotland placed under the more severe amber alert through to late evening.
Public health advocates, including Dr Krishan, are echoing the importance of heeding official advice, especially for vulnerable groups such as those with pre-existing medical conditions. She recommends: “If you’re unwell during this period, don’t push yourself. It’s wise to stay hydrated, rest up as much as possible, and if you are someone who experiences migraines, managing your symptoms early can prevent them from escalating.”
This focus on weather-related health impacts is becoming increasingly prevalent during the UK’s storm seasons. It serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked ways environmental changes can influence wellbeing. Many healthcare professionals stress the importance of understanding these connections, as it can help individuals better prepare and protect themselves during adverse conditions.
As the emergency services continue to deal with storm-related incidents — including blocked roads and damaged infrastructure — the message is clear: the effects of Storm Floris extend well beyond the immediate dangers of wind and rain. The medical advice centres on staying indoors, taking rest, and following prescribed treatments if weather-induced symptoms develop.
While the nation waits for Storm Floris to pass, both medical and weather officials urge everyone to prioritise personal safety and look out for signs that their health may be affected, even if symptoms seem unrelated to the turbulent weather outside. In an era of increasingly erratic weather patterns, recognising the ripple effects on individual health could prove vital not only during this storm but in future incidents to come.
The public is advised to stay updated with Met Office alerts and to reach out to healthcare providers should they experience any concerning symptoms. This coordinated approach, leveraging both health expertise and meteorological insight, is seen as crucial in mitigating the wider impacts of severe weather events like Storm Floris.