Storm Eunice is set to strike Wales with a vengeance, with a "rare" red weather warning having been issued for parts of the country on Friday.
The Met Office upgraded the warning on Thursday as it tracks the storm that is developing in the Atlantic. The warning is in place from 7am until 12pm on Friday, February 18.
The Welsh coast between Swansea and Chepstow, as well as parts of England are included in the red alert area. Read more about how windy it will be where you live in our latest Met Office forecast here.
Read all our Wales weather stories here.
Under a red alert, the Met Office says Wales can expect flying debris "resulting in danger to life", "damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down," and "uprooted trees".
"Although the most exposed coastal areas in the south and west could see gusts in excess of 90mph, winds will remain notably strong further inland, with gusts of between 70-80mph for most within the amber warning area," said Met Office chief meteorologist Frank Saunders.
So, how can you protect your homes and gardens ahead of the strong winds, and what can you do if your property is damaged? We've consulted three home insurance companies - Aviva, Admiral and Axa - for their top tips.
What can you do as the storm is approaching?
With Storm Eunice now imminent, it's probably too late for most of us to call in professionals to check our roof tiles, or trim loose branches in our gardens.
But Noel Summerfield, head of household at Admiral Insurance, reassured that "it’s not too late to make some preparations".
"Before the storm, check your garden and store any items in your shed or garage that could easily be blown away and cause damage, such as trampolines, furniture and ladders," he advised.
“Make sure you have the contact details of your home insurer to hand, along with other emergency contact numbers for your utility providers."
Aviva also recommends that homeowners:
"Park vehicles in a garage: If you have a garage, use it. If you don’t have one, try to park well away from trees, walls or fences that could fall in the face of strong winds.
"Close and fasten doors and windows: Don’t forget to secure less frequently used entrances, like loft trapdoors.
"Keep pets indoors: Make sure pets are protected and small outside pets are brought indoors."
In its list of storm-proof tips, Axa suggests that people who live in areas prone to flooding install sandbags on gaps such as doors and windows.
It added: "Make sure to move any electrical equipment and any sentimental items upstairs, disconnect the pipes to dishwashers and washing machines and turn off gas, water and electricity mains."
Both Axa and Aviva also suggest keeping an emergency kit on hand in case you have a power cut or you have to leave your home.
Axa suggests preparing:
- A list of emergency contact numbers
- Home insurance documents
- Torches
- Non-perishable food
- Drinking water
- Blankets and warm clothing
- Instructions on how to safely turn off your power, water and gas
- A first aid kit.
What should you do in the midst of the storm?
Aviva recommends that if your property is damaged when the storm hits, you should let it pass before you attempt to fix it.
"If you do hear something in your home break, don’t try to repair damage while the storm’s still in progress. Property can be repaired, but it’s more important to stay safe," the insurance company said.
Axa also suggests powering down if water enters your home.
"If you spot damp patches within your home during heavy rainfall, turn off the electricity at the fuse as damp wiring can be a fire hazard. Contact a professional for further assistance," it said in its list of tips.
What should you do after the storm?
So, you've weathered the storm - now what?
Mr Summerfield, of Admiral Insurance, gave this advice: “Check your roof for any damage, stand back and look for any visible signs such as missing tiles. Go into your attic and take a look from the inside for any light from outside or any signs of damp. Also check if your guttering is intact.
“If your property is damaged, contact your insurer as soon as possible. They can give advice on what you need to do next and arrange repairs as quickly as possible.
“To help the processing of your claim, make a list and take photos of anything damaged by the storm. Don't throw away anything that's been damaged as it may need to be assessed - take photographs if possible.
“Arrange temporary repairs to prevent further damage but don't put yourself at risk. For example, arranging for a local contractor to make a temporary fix for a damaged roof to stop rain getting in. Keep the invoices for any temporary works carried out as your insurer will need to see them.
“If water is coming into your property, prevent further damage to your belongings by moving them if it's safe to do so.”
If you can't get help from local contractors, Aviva suggests some quick fixes while you wait for professionals to take care of any significant repairs, such as using plastic sheets to patch up damaged parts of your home, as long as it's safe and easy to do so.
How can you prepare well in advance next time?
If your property is damaged when Storm Eunice hits, you might be wondering how you can prepare better next time and for the long-term.
Aviva recommends four preventative strategies before a storm hits - and advises any potentially hazardous checks and repairs are done by professionals:
"Check your roof: Look for loose or missing tiles, crumbling pointing or any other signs of damage. Also ensure any television aerials and satellite dishes are securely attached.
"Secure your fence: Make sure fence panels are fixed in place and garden gates are in good working order, to avoid panels flying away or gates swinging wildly in the wind.
"Remove hazardous branches: Cut down loose or overhanging branches in your garden, particularly those close to windows or power lines. But be careful: some trees are safeguarded and cannot be removed. Check with your local planning authority if you’re unsure whether a tree can be cut.
"Keep gutters clear of moss and leaves: If your gutters overflow during a downpour, it’s time to give them a good clean. Remember to make sure they’re securely fixed in place once you’ve finished."
On this last tip, Axa warns that blocked gutters can cause "damage to plasterwork during heavy periods of rain", as well as "water build up, w hich can run down your home’s walls and into the foundations."
In its list of tips, the insurance company suggests making outbuildings as safe as houses.
"Sheds and garages are ideal for safely storing your items during winter, so it’s important that they can survive severe weather," it advises.
"Make sure the roof is securely fastened in place - always seek professional advice before attempting anything yourself. Damaged guttering or cracked windows in outbuildings can be particularly susceptible to storms, so make sure you regularly maintain them."
Axa also advises that people keep their homes watertight.
"Seal any gaps in outer walls and foundations with foam or caulk to prevent cold air and water entering your home.
"Invest in heat tape to run around the underside of your guttering to prevent ice from forming and protect your pipes with insulation.
"If you leave your property empty for long periods of time, consider turning off your stop tap to avoid water flowing through pipes and freezing."
Mr Summerfield also advises that homeowners ensure "bricks, rendering and chimneys are in good condition".
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