October 02, 2025 - 277 views
The UK’s leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is urging people not to be complacent and to take action to prevent damage before Storm Amy brings dangerous winds to much of the UK this Friday and Saturday.
The storm will bring gusts of up to 70mph in Wales, potentially wreaking havoc on properties and businesses and putting lives at risk.
High winds could pull down trees and damage buildings, and heavy rain could lead to localised flooding. The Met Office has issued an amber weather alert for parts of Scotland, with a yellow alert in place for the rest of Scotland, the North of England, Northern Ireland and Wales.
The leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is urging all home and business owners to consider the risks of the storm and take appropriate action to mitigate danger and damage.
Andrew Chalk, rural insurance specialist at NFU Mutual, said: "We know from experience that wind storms can catch people off-guard, causing more damage than expected, so it’s important not to be complacent.
“With many trees still in leaf, there could be a greater risk of fallen trees and branches – debris which could disrupt transport and cause power outages, as well as causing damage to buildings and a risk to people.
"Storm Amy is expected to hit on the early evening of Friday, so we do have some warning. While everyone should make safety their number one priority, now is the time to pack up or tie down your summer furniture, which may have stayed outside for the past few months. Garden furniture and ornaments can be turned into battering rams by strong winds, so this is a simple way to reduce risk.
“Gale-force winds can rip tiles from roofs, tear down trees and topple walls, so if it's safe and you're able to do so you should think about securing roofs and walls and pruning overhanging branches. Make sure vehicles are kept in a safe place and ensure windows and doors can be and are shut during the storm.
"As well as taking the steps above, business owners should have a storm plan in place which ensures the safety of all workers and has a clear plan for maintaining contact. Prepare for power cuts and check any back-up generators are in working order.
"We know that isolated rural properties and those on the coast are generally most at risk from storm damage, so we urge people in these areas to be especially vigilant.
"As ever, NFU Mutual's loss adjusters and network of Agents will be ready to assist customers and move claims along, so have your insurer's details handy and don't delay in making a claim. NFU Mutual can pay some smaller claims immediately, so it might be you can start arranging repairs straight away."
