THE NSW KEMPSEY SES Unit is urging residents to get ready for storm season, which typically starts in October and runs until March of next year.
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Kempsey Unit media officer, Greg Gill, says the best way to prepare is through home maintenance and vigilance.
"Clean your roof and gutters, secure or store any heavy items that could be blown around in strong winds, such as pot plants, building materials or furniture," he said.
"Trim any trees and branches that could fall or cause damage to your property, but make sure to check with council about any guidelines or required consent applications, and contact a qualified and insured arborist for advice where needed.
"Keep an eye out for weather warnings, if there is hail predicted, get your car undercover, and stay away from the windows and other glass, if it shatters, you don't want to be anywhere near it."
The Bureau of Meteorology has released its Severe Weather Outlook for October to April, showing an increased risk of flooding and heavy rain, with the current La Nia likely to bring more rain to NSW.
Thunderstorms are the most common and damaging types of storms in New South Wales, accounting for a large part of the damage done to properties across the state.
"Once a storm hits, it's too late to make a plan, prepare now, have an emergency plan, and an emergency kit with essential supplies in an easy to access location," Greg said.
"It can be difficult to find essential items if the power goes out, or if you are in a hurry to leave.
"If you are caught outside, don't run towards a tree, keep low to the ground, lighting strikes on trees are quite common, it's the last place you want to be standing."
The storm season technically only lasts for six months, but weather can be unpredictable at the best of times, which is why Greg advises being prepared for storms year-round.
"Warmer months of the year are peak times for storms, but they can happen at any time of the year," he said.
"The 1999 Sydney hailstorm occurred in April, out of peak time, but it ended up being one of the costliest natural disasters on record, causing extensive damage along the east coast of New South Wales."
NSW SES urges residents and visitors to take care when driving in wet weather on local roads and especially if driving in upper catchment areas.
Low lying rural causeways can overflow and are dangerous to cross when flooded. Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater; this is the leading cause of death during floods.
For updates on the weather monitor the Bureau of Meteorology website at: www.bom.gov.au
For more advice on how to best prepare your property, visit: www.ses.nsw.gov.au
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