Red, Amber, Yellow: What Weather Warnings Mean for Your Roof

From gusty winds rolling in from the Pennines to dramatic weather events like Storm Babet and Storm Darragh, homes in South Yorkshire are constantly tested by unpredictable skies. It’s not just a cue to grab your coat when the Met Office issues a red, amber or yellow weather warning. It’s a call to make sure your roof is ready to handle what’s coming.

Keep reading to learn what these warnings really mean for your roof and how you can prepare.

What do weather warnings mean?

The Met Office uses a traffic-light system to issue weather warnings. Yellow, amber and red are used to indicate the level of potential disruption. These warnings are designed to help you anticipate how the weather might affect your home. Here’s how they translate to roof care:

Yellow warnings: be watchful

Yellow warnings suggest that disruptive weather could happen. This includes gusty winds, heavy rain or snow. For your roof, this might mean:

  • Loose tiles starting to shift
  • Minor leaks forming around flashing or vents
  • Gutters beginning to clog with debris

While yellow warnings don’t scream urgency, they’re a reminder to check your roof from the ground and ensure it’s in good shape.

Amber warnings: get ready

Amber warnings mean severe weather is more likely, with a higher risk of damage. In Barnsley, this could mean heavy rain battering areas like Darton or strong winds sweeping through Hoyland. The entire town was issued with a flood warning when Storm Babet rolled through in 2023.

Potential roof problems include:

  • Tiles becoming fully dislodged
  • Damaged flashing that allows water to seep in
  • Overflowing gutters causing water to pool

If an amber warning is issued, take it as a cue to secure anything that might blow around your garden and have your roof checked by a professional if you suspect issues.

Red warnings: take immediate action

A red warning is rare but serious. It signals life-threatening weather, like gale-force winds or torrential rain. Storm Darragh, an extratropical cyclone that hit the British Isles in December 2024, triggered a rare red weather warning from the Met Office.

Homes in more exposed areas like Penistone or Mapplewell might face:

  • Large sections of roofing lifting in strong gusts
  • Structural damage to chimneys or roof beams
  • Heavy water leaks causing internal damage

Safety is the priority during a red warning. Stay indoors and don’t be tempted to check on your roof.

Barnsley’s unique weather challenges

Barnsley’s position near the Pennines means we often see stronger winds and unpredictable weather, compared to other parts of South Yorkshire. Exposed areas like Staincross can feel the full force of storms, while valley locations like Elsecar contend with heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

The type of roof you have also plays a role in how it handles extreme weather. Slate roofs, common in older homes around Cawthorne, might see tiles loosen, while the lighter materials used on newer builds in Dodworth can be more prone to wind uplift.

How to protect your roof during weather warnings

Whether the Met Office has issued a yellow, amber or red warning, taking action ahead of time can help prevent costly damage to your roof:

Before the storm

  • Check for loose tiles or slates – Walk around your property and look for visible gaps or misaligned tiles.
  • Clear gutters – Make sure water flows freely to prevent blockages. Use a long-handled tool to clear debris without climbing up.
  • Secure garden items – Tie down bins, furniture and anything that could be blown into your roof.
  • Trim nearby trees – Branches too close to your roof can cause damage in strong winds, so keep them cut back.

During the storm

  • Stay indoors – Don’t risk going outside to check for damage until it’s safe.
  • Monitor for leaks – Check ceilings and loft spaces for water drips or damp patches.
  • Listen for signs of damage – Unusual banging or creaking sounds could indicate loose roof components.

After the storm

  • Inspect from the ground – Look for missing tiles, sagging gutters or debris.
  • Check the loft – Look for damp spots or signs of water intrusion.
  • Call a roofing specialist – If you spot any damage, get a professional inspection to prevent further problems.

Common roof issues in Barnsley

Here’s a look at some of the most common issues that can pop up on different styles of homes in Barnsley:

  • Victorian Terraces in Worsbrough – Slate tiles can loosen, especially near chimneys. As well as storms, loose tiles are a telltale sign of a bad roofing job.
  • Semis in Barugh Green – Concrete tiles are tough but may crack under impact from flying debris.
  • Modern Homes in Redbrook – Flat roofs can pool water if gutters aren’t maintained.
  • Stone cottages in Silkstone – Heavy stone tiles offer great protection but can shift under extreme wind.

Knowing your roof type and its vulnerabilities is essential to protecting it during severe weather.

Spotting roof damage

Keep an eye out for these signs of damage after a storm:

  • Missing or broken tiles – Exposed sections of the roof are more vulnerable to leaks
  • Damaged flashing – Can lead to water intrusion around chimneys or skylights
  • Blocked gutters – Overflowing water can damage walls and foundations
  • Debris on the ground – Pieces of roof material in your garden may signal larger issues

Why professional roof inspections matter

You can always check for visible damage from the ground, but a professional inspection makes sure no hidden issues are left unnoticed. When’s the best time to schedule a roof inspection? Just after winter is always advisable as the cold, wet months are usually the harshest on your roof.

Local roofers, like DPR Roofing, understand the unique challenges posed by our weather and architecture. We will:

  • Identify hairline cracks or weak points
  • Assess the overall structural integrity of your roof
  • Provide expert repairs to keep your roof secure and extend its lifespan

Be ready for whatever Barnsley’s weather brings

Weather warnings aren’t just a colour on a forecast. They’re a heads-up to proactively protect your home. By taking simple precautions and knowing when to call in the experts, you can keep your roof in great shape no matter what the South Yorkshire weather throws at it.

Need help getting your roof storm-ready? DPR Roofing in Barnsley has decades of experience in keeping local homes safe from the elements. Whether it’s routine maintenance or urgent post-storm repairs, we’re here to help.

Contact us today on 01226 670 008 and let’s make sure your roof is up to the challenge.