Weather & Stream Warnings

Responsibility The Duty Officer is responsible for ensuring that they are aware of anticipated weather and stream conditions for the period of the activities. 

A weather forecast must always be obtained.

During periods when darkness is expected to fall during the session, they should be aware of sunset and sunrise times as appropriate.

Sources of information

Weather Forecast. This may be from any source that the DO is happy with. The postcode of the centre is KT7 0XB and a BBC Internet Forecast for 24 hours and 5 days may be obtained from: http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/forecast/4296?area=KT7

Sunset & Sunrise times. This can be obtained from the 24 hour tab on the BBC forecast http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/forecast/4296?area=KT7

Stream warnings. During settled conditions a visual check may be all that is required. This can be done in person. Should the DO want further information, the environment agency publishes river conditions at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/river-thames-current-river-conditions

For boating activities during “Red Boards”, the Centre Principle, a Chief Instructor or GLV of the relevant group should agree the plan. 

Flow Levels: These can be obtained from:

• • Richmond Canoe Club Page for Kingston Bridge: https://www.richmondcanoeclub.com/safety-welfare/river-flow 

  • Environment Agency Data: https://environment.data.gov.uk/hydrology/station/8496ce69-482c-406a-a2f0-ac418ef8f099 

River Levels: The Thames Ditton Island level gauge provides information on river levels: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/station/7246 

The environment agency floodline can also be consulted on 0845 988 1188 and select option 1, followed by quick dial number 011131 to hear recorded information and advice.

Communication

During periods of settled weather & stream conditions, no explicit communication may be necessary however if there are any changes or the weather and/or stream is unsettled, the DO should brief instructors and may choose to brief participants. This could be done directly or via instructors.

For day long events it is best practice that the forecast be displayed in the interest of Scouts’ training. This should be done in either or both of the following locations:

• Ajax buildings: notice board in entrance lobby

• Warspite building: Whiteboard on Kayak Store

Changes: DO’s are reminded that forecasts can and do change.