Storm Darragh will pummel Scotland this weekend with fierce winds set to hit from 3am on Saturday, December 7, and last until 9pm the same day with the Met Office warning of ‘danger to life’ conditions.
An amber weather warning has been issued as the storm advances with forecasters saying the wind will impact parts of the southwest this weekend. It comes just two weeks after Storm Bert wreaked havoc on parts of the UK with strong winds, heavy rain and snow lashing large swathes of the country.
And while many homeowners will still be clearing up from the impact of Storm Bert, experts say there are some easy steps you can take now to limit damage from the onslaught of Storm Darragh. Homeowners are being urged to do these six things ahead of the storm which can limit damage to their properties and vehicles.
1. Shut all windows and doors
While it might seem obvious, the first piece of advice is to close and securely fasten doors and windows, according to insurance experts Swinton – including internal doors. Also, don’t forget to bolt any garage doors and secure shed doors as well.
2. Secure loose objects
Swinton also suggest heading outside into the garden and start to secure any loose objects such as garden furniture or ladders. If you can’t put them away in a garage or shed, you can use elastic bungee cords to fix them to a solid object.
3. Put your car in the garage
If you have one, move the car into it. If you don’t have one try and park your vehicle someone that is away from large trees, walls or fences.
4. Gut instinct
Axa insurance suggest making sure that all gutters and pipes are free from debris to prevent overflow and damage to plasterwork during periods of heavy rain. Blocked and damaged gutters can actually cause a water build up, which can run down your home’s walls and into the foundations.
5. Stock up on candles and torches
Storms can inevitably mean power cuts, so be sure to have candles, matches or lighters and batteries for your torches handy.
6. Let the storm pass
Although it might be tempting to fix any damage as soon as you notice it, wait until the storm has died down before attempting repairs to ensure you are not putting yourself in danger, say Swinton.
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