The KNMI already warns of heavy gusts of wind on Friday evening, October 23, and in the night to Saturday. From the end of the afternoon there will be heavy gusts of wind of 75-90 km/h in the southeast and southwestern coastal area. Later in the evening, this will also happen in the east and west, next night in the Wadden and IJsselmeer area.
According to the expectation, gusts of wind of 75 to 90 kilometres per hour are possible. Because trees are still in full leaf, branches can easily break off and cause nuisance. Of course, the expectation can still change. Therefore, follow the current warnings of the KNMI for your region.
Damage and nuisance
A blown down fence, flying flower pot or clogged gutter can cause a lot of damage and nuisance. Not all storm damage can be prevented, but a critical round through the house, garden and balcony can reduce the risk. Even if the heaviest wind does not eventually reach your home, measures are useful, but of course your own safety comes first.
Upwind
Go through this practical checklist before the wind starts blowing hard.
- Clear the garden and balcony of loose items. Place garden chairs, loose tables, plant pots, watering cans and toys in a shed, storage room or indoors as much as possible. Don't forget hanging baskets and loose decoration on the balcony edge. Don't just fold a parasol, but also store it. A protective cover does not prevent a piece of furniture from blowing away.
- Pay extra attention to large wind catchers. A trampoline, party tent or loose canopy can catch a lot of wind. Where possible, store them before the strong winds or follow the manufacturer's instructions for secure anchoring. Place waste containers in a sheltered place where they cannot roll away. Try not to stop a trampoline or tent from blowing away during the storm.
- Close windows, doors, and skylights. Check all the floors and don't forget the shed, garage and skylight in the attic. Check that fasteners are secure. Retract awnings and awnings in time. For external venetian blinds and roller shutters, follow the manufacturer's storm instructions; Safe mode varies by system.
- View roof and façade from a safe place. From the ground, pay attention to crooked roof tiles, loose gutters and damaged façade parts. Have possible defects in roofing, chimneys, solar panels or antennas assessed by a professional. Do not go on the roof yourself and certainly do not use a ladder when the wind is strong. Report defects in a rental property to the landlord and in common parts of a flat complex to the VvE or manager.
- Make sure rainwater can drain away. Remove leaves and dirt from drains on the terrace and balcony, as far as you can safely reach them. Have clogged gutters and rainwater drains cleaned in good time. If this requires a ladder or access to the roof, call in a professional. Also check if an already known leak has been fixed: wind and rain can aggravate a small defect.
- Check fences and trees without taking any risks. Check whether fence parts are loose or poles are crooked. Arrange for recovery before the high winds if it is safe to do so. Do you see large dead branches, a torn trunk or a tree that is suddenly crooked? Keep your distance and have an expert assess the situation. Do not cut large branches or prune trees yourself just before or during the storm.
- Park your car in a safe place. Preferably choose a closed garage. If you park outside, do so as far away as possible from trees, scaffolding, construction fences and buildings with visible loose parts. Move your car well before the wind picks up; Do not go outside during heavy gusts of wind to quickly find another parking space.
- Prepare for nuisance. Charge your phone and have a flashlight and the contact details of your insurer or adviser at hand. If you have to go out, first check the weather warnings and travel information. Postpone a non-essential trip in dangerous weather conditions. If necessary, help neighbours in advance with putting things inside, but only if it is safe to do so.
Entrepreneurs: check the outdoor area and make agreements
Do you have your own business? Put loose materials, waste, pallets and mobile objects inside or have them properly secured. Store loose billboards and patio furniture. If there is any doubt, have the fastening of façade advertising and other outdoor installations checked. Check that doors of warehouses and storage rooms can close properly and keep drains clear. Agree in advance who will follow the weather warnings, who will take measures and who can be reached in the event of damage. Do not allow employees to clean up or work at height outside during heavy gusts of wind.
During the storm: safety before things
In case of heavy gusts of wind, stay indoors as much as possible and follow the instructions of emergency services. Avoid trees, scaffolding and loose roof or façade components outside the area. Do not go on the roof to put back roof tiles and do not try to hold on to a loose fence. Wait to clean up and inspect until the conditions are safe again. In the event of acute danger to people or a life-threatening situation, call 112.
What is insured?
Storm damage to a home is usually insured through home insurance. Damage to items in the house can be covered by the contents insurance. Storm damage to a car usually requires limited hull or all-risk insurance. Third-party insurance alone does not cover damage to one's own car. The exact coverage, conditions and any deductible differ per insurance. Specific conditions may apply to, for example, garden equipment, fences and damage where overdue maintenance plays a role. Therefore, check your policy or ask your insurer or adviser for an explanation.
For more information, check de preventietips bij storm, our preventietips voor extreem weer and the informatie over stormschade en verzekeringen. In the meantime, keep an eye on the actuele KNMI-waarschuwingen .
Still damage? Record it and contact your insurer or adviser
1. Only check if it is safe. Even after the storm, roof tiles may be loose or branches may be on the verge of breaking. Keep your distance from damaged trees and buildings.
2. Take overview and detail photos. Capture the damage and the surroundings without putting yourself in danger. Write down when you discovered the damage.
3. Report the damage as soon as possible. Contact your insurer or insurance adviser. In the case of a rental property, also report damage to the building to the landlord; In the case of common parts, contact the VvE or manager.
4. Limit further damage where it is safe to do so. For example, move things away from a leak or collect dripping water. Leave emergency measures on a damaged roof or a broken window to a professional. Do not wait unnecessarily in case of immediately necessary damage reduction, but consult with your insurer.
5. Keep evidence and receipts. Save invoices of emergency measures and repairs. If possible, only throw away damaged items after consultation. Coordinate definitive recovery with your insurer or adviser. Often this can also be done digitally. Only call the emergency number in an emergency.