So, Mr Metofficeman......

[10ClarionSt]

....why do storms have names these days?
Well, basically it's because everyone out there is as thick as pig tihs. The public just think that there is wind, rain, hail, snow, flooding etc. But it's not as simple as that. These storms are really nice, cuddly things, with lovable names to give the impression that things aren't as bad they actually are. I know there are people out there who don't really appreciate the value of giving a name to a storm, people in the Severn Valley for instance but they will eventually see the publicity value of it and learn to like the Met Office stance on this. It really is important that people understand where we're coming from. Or at least the weather. I think. Innit?

[drmorgans]

The names of storms alternate between the genders, Ciara then Dennis, but the Spanish nipped in with Jorge.

[10ClarionSt]

There isn't much that "bothers" me. It doesn't mean I don't notice things. If something "bothers" me, I'd probably contact the relevant person/place. Commenting on here hardly qualifies for that.

[10ClarionSt]

Thanks for all the replies, folks. Time for brekkie! Innit!

[jno]

ease of identification. Americans all know who Katrine was even if they might struggle to remember the hurricane of, er, er, whenever it was, you know, the one that hit New Orleans.

anneasquith, there was a Hurricane Annie in 1961, but no Hurricane Anne. They seem to require at least two syllables.

[Chipchopper]

I have my own names for them, but unfortunately they're unprintable on here.

[ichkeria]

This is Storm Clarion I think :-)

[jourdain2]

We met the chief hydrologist/whatever else for our area the other day - anyway, he's v. imp. about storm effects. He was with us in being scathing about this names business. What was wrong with 'Another front bringing high winds, rain, etc. coming in from the Atlantic'? We all reckoned it was a media device to whip up hysteria.

[gness]

The reason for naming storms is very simple and sensible.....well it is for anyone who genuinely wants to know why..... :-)

[Buenchico]

Quote:
"[Q] Why are we naming storms?

[A] The naming of storms using a single authoritative system should aid the communication of approaching severe weather through media partners and other government agencies. In this way the public will be better placed to keep themselves, their property and businesses safe"

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-storm-centre/index

[albaqwerty]

gness, it is. (both simple and sensible x)
Quite clever really.

[Jordyboy9]

Gness,are you keeping well my dear?
Reason for asking,your answers seem to be rather antagonistic if that’s the right word,
Don’t get bitter and twisted like I am.

[Arksided]

Drmorgans... The names of storms alternate between the genders, Ciara then Dennis, but the Spanish nipped in with Jorge.

That makes sense now, I thought I'd forgotton my A.B.C. s