The Great Storm of 1703 was a devastating tempest that struck southern Great Britain, particularly affecting London and the surrounding areas. The storm's winds were so powerful that they uprooted trees and overturned ships, leading to catastrophic damage throughout the region. It is estimated that gusts reached 120 mph, making it one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the area. The weather patterns preceding the storm were not well understood, and the ferocity of the winds took many by surprise, leading to inadequate preparations for the approaching disaster.

In London, the storm caused extensive devastation. Not only were buildings and homes destroyed, but the Thames River also experienced considerable disruption due to the storm's ferocity. Furthermore, as the storm progressed, it severely hampered trade and transport, causing delays in the supply of goods and leading to shortages in the wake of the disaster. The overall economic impact, along with the loss of life, dictated the immediate response from local governments seeking to aid communities affected.

As a result of the storm, approximately 9,000 people perished due to the extreme conditions, further emphasizing the human cost of such natural disasters. The aftermath saw widespread rebuilding efforts and marked a notable change in how future storms were recorded and studied. The Great Storm of 1703 remains a significant point of analysis in meteorology, serving as a case study for understanding severe weather systems.