The British Red Cross said its emergency response teams were on standby as the north of England prepares for the arrival of Storm Fleur.
Experts are predicting Storm Fleur will bring thunderstorms and gusts of up to 60mph in some parts of the UK.
The Met Office has issued a weather warning for today and tomorrow.
It said slow-moving, heavy downpours, some thundery, may cause flooding and travel disruption.
What to expect
- There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater.
- Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
- Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services
Sandra Howitt, interim director of crisis response at the British Red Cross said: “Our volunteers know that emergency situations can be very stressful and upsetting so we are gearing up to help people deal with whatever might come their way.
“Thunderstorms and flooding can have a big impact on people and local communities.
“The Red Cross responds to an emergency in the UK approximately every four hours and we work alongside with voluntary and community sector and local authorities in these situations to provide support, carry out first aid, run rest centres and provide safe spaces where we can offer emotional and practical support.
“We know that one person’s needs can be very different to another’s so we’re ready to offer helpful information and guidance on what to do next as well as offering psychological first aid.
“There are a few things you can do to help prepare. Things like making sure your mobile phone is fully charged and that you have torches to hand.
“Having an emergency kit ready to grab can also make a huge difference. And checking in on your family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are safe and well.”
