NSW residents and businesses are being warned to be prepared for the storm season after insurance figures revealed that last years’ season was the most intense in four years.
Last December Sydneysiders braved the worst hail storm in 20 years which caused widespread damage. The storm season is typically from October to March and can bring violent winds, heavy rain and hail.
The story in the Sydney Morning Herald says that “suburbs in Sydney’s north and west were the city’s most storm-affected, while the Central Coast was also heavily hit. Berowra Heights, Castle Hill and Chipping Norton were the top three suburbs, followed by West Pennant Hills, Baulkham Hills, Casula, Quakers Hill, Berowra, Moorebank and Glenwood”.
No matter where you are, it always helps to be prepared as storms do occur all over NSW. Residents should trim trees, clean out gutters and secure lose items on balconies and in gardens.
Stay indoors and away from windows especially during lightening storms and never, ever drive through flood waters.
It also helps to ensure you have working torches, bottled water and if possible a gassed up, ready to go BBQ. If the electricity goes out you may need these items.
If you do need help with securing storm damaged property or removing fallen trees call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500.