UK households told to lock their doors and windows this weekend

Families throughout Britain are being told to secure their doors and windows on Sunday and Monday as gales reaching 70mph are predicted.

The Met Office has cautioned that more turbulent conditions are approaching this weekend, with torrential downpours, thunderstorms and fierce winds expected across much of the nation. Yellow weather alerts have been put in place from 8pm on Sunday, September 14, through to 6pm on Monday, September 15, with gusts anticipated to hit up to 70mph in certain locations.

The wind warning encompasses nine regions across England and Wales, with residents in the impacted zones advised to brace for transport chaos and potential electricity outages.

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The Met Office stated: "Strong west or southwesterly winds will arrive across coastal areas of southwest England and Wales during Sunday evening, then develop more widely inland during Monday morning. Gusts of 45-55 mph are expected widely inland, with gusts of 60-70 mph possible at times along exposed coasts and hills. Winds will only slowly ease from the west later in the afternoon and into Monday evening."

In preparation for the rough weather, families are being encouraged to fasten their doors and windows to shield their properties and gardens from the forceful blasts, reports the Express.

The Met Office has recommended that people clear any moveable objects from their gardens, including outdoor lighting, lanterns, hanging planters and mirrors, as these items could be easily damaged and shattered in the windy conditions. Families are being urged to check road conditions before setting off on journeys, as well as bus and train schedules, and to prepare for potential power cuts by gathering essentials such as torches, batteries, and mobile phone power packs.

The Met Office has issued advice on how to stay safe during storms, stating: "Secure loose objects such as ladders, garden furniture or anything else that could be blown into windows and other glazing and break them."

"Close and securely fasten doors and windows, particularly those on the windward side of the house, and especially large doors such as those on garages. Park vehicles in a garage, if available; otherwise keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences."

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It continues: "Close and secure loft trapdoors with bolts, particularly if roof pitch is less than 30°. If the house is fitted with storm shutters over the windows then ensure that these are closed and fastened. If chimney stacks are tall and in poor condition, move beds away from areas directly below them."

Steven Walley, a landscaper and gardening expert from London Stone, has warned of the importance of taking steps to protect your home during adverse weather conditions to minimise damage.

He further added: "Nature is extremely powerful and heavy wind and rain can cause severe damage to your garden through flying debris or flooding."

"To prevent as much harm as possible, it's important to ensure we're taking precautions to protect our homes in harsh weather conditions. Make sure all doors and windows are locked shut. If you know a storm or weather warning is set to take place in your region, start taking precaution.

Steven said: "First, make sure that there are no obvious entry points by making sure all windows and doors are locked shut. This will help to prevent damage from heavy rain seeping in and will help to reduce pressure on windows from strong winds."