Weathering the storm
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More bad weather – this time severe gales, flooding, heavy rain and hill snow – has been forecast. Find out what you can do to protect your home
Many parts of Britain have just seen, heard and been battered by severe windstorms of over 80mph. Now there is more severe weather on the way, with some areas under threat of imminent flooding.
But even before you batten down the hatches again, storms and high tides across are already causing havoc for many homeowners, particularly those living in southern and coastal areas.
The Environment Agency has now raised concerns that homes in the Bristol Channel, Severn Estuary and Somerset coast are under threat, as spring tides and strong winds could cause floods.
To help you prepare for a visit from a furious Mother Nature, here are some tips from Halifax Home Insurance:
Get good cover
Facing the threat of windstorm damage
1. Secure any objects which could become hazardous such as garden furniture, barbecues and bicycles, and keep gates and outbuilding doors fastened securely
2. Cut back low-hanging branches that could cause damage in high winds or storms
3. Clear the gutters and drain pipes of any leaves or debris that have built up in them to reduce the risk of blocks and overflows
4. Check external light fittings are secure
5. Keep a home emergency kit prepared in case of a crisis such as a severe storm or flood. This could include torches, spare bulbs and batteries, a battery powered or wind-up radio, your home insurance documents, other emergency contact details, tinned food, warm clothing, blankets and a shovel
6. Listen to the radio for regular updates on the weather or other emergency situations
