Brace For Storm Lilian, Says NFU Mutual

It may still be August but it feels like winter out there, with temperatures around 13C up North. Global warming again eh? That means the first winter storms are heading towards the UK andtThe UK’s leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is urging people to guard against complacency and prepare as Storm Lillian is expected to bring dangerous winds to parts of the United Kingdom.

Storm Lillian will hit Wales, the north of England and the south of Scotland on Friday, bringing with it gusts of around 60mph, rising above 75mph in some areas.

The leading rural insurer is warning people to take sensible measures to protect your person and property, and not to underestimate the damage that can be caused by gale-force winds.

Andrew Chalk, rural insurance specialist at NFU Mutual, said:

“After a blustery few days, it’s tempting to dismiss the risks of the gusts set to hit during Storm Lillian, but we’re urging everyone in the affected areas to guard against complacency.

“Although Storm Lillian isn’t expected to be near the same severity, Storms Arwen, Dudley, Eunice and Franklin in recent years have shown how devastating high winds can be, each resulting in thousands of claims and tens of millions of pounds’ worth of damage.

“We’ve put our network of Agents and repairers on alert and urge everyone to treat Storm Lillian with the same caution – particularly farmers and those in isolated, rural properties, which we know from experience are hardest-hit by extreme weather.

“If it’s safe to do so, consider removing loose furniture from gardens where possible and keep doors and windows securely shut. Also move cars away from branches, tiles or walls if you can and make quick repairs to loose guttering or other fixings.

Andrew Chalk added:

“We understand the pressure farmers and rural businesses are under, but we urge them not to take unnecessary risks in the storm, which could lead to injury or fatality.

“Farmers can consider moving livestock to higher ground to protect them from flood water as well as moving machinery and electrical items.

“It is also worth checking alternative fuel and power sources in case of a power cut or disruption, such as making sure generators are in working condition and able to run at full load for long periods of time.”