Claims data from the insurer shows that almost two in every three (60 per cent) home claims over the past financial year were related to storms.

The East Coast Low in June caused the most impact, with more than 85 per cent of home claims for the month being for storm damage.

“Despite being the second most storm affected region in NSW, only 18 per cent of Hunter residents say they have taken action to prepare their property for storm season,” NRMA Insurance head of shared value Ramana James said.

“This is below the national average, which shows a quarter of Australians had taken action.

“Residents of the Hunter are the most concerned in the state when it comes to storms with over two-thirds (68 per cent) saying they think storms are becoming more destructive and occurring more often while nearly 40 per cent say they, or someone in their family, gets nervous and panics in a storm.

“Murrurundi was among the Hunter’s top five affected towns; coming in number three.”

Ms James said now was the time to start planning ahead.

“This month marks the start of storm season, so together with the NSW SES we’re encouraging locals to begin taking simple steps like clearing gutters, trimming branches and securing loose outdoor items to help reduce storm damage,” she said.

“Little acts can make a big difference in severe weather.

“Taking the time now to prepare your home and ensure your insurance cover is up to date will help you to be better prepared for unexpected events.”

Further research conducted by NRMA Insurance revealed that only one in four (25 per cent) Australians had taken action to prepare their home for storm season.

In addition, the majority did not have an emergency kit ready (77 per cent) or an emergency plan in place (72 per cent) for storms or floods. 

One in two (46 per cent) had not checked their insurance cover in the past 12 months. 

“Last storm season NSW SES volunteers responded to more than 19,000 storm-related calls for assistance, however many of these could have been prevented if residents were better prepared and had an emergency plan in place,” NSW SES Acting Commissioner Greg Newton said.

“Safety measures like preparing your home and an emergency kit, as well as an evacuation plan are very simple, but incredibly effective. 

“Getting ready for storm season now will help to limit the amount of damage and injury suffered in storms.”

The official storm season runs from October through to March and NRMA Insurance, in conjunction with the NSW SES, have developed a simple checklist to help people get ready and prepare for storm season. 

For more information, visit www.stormsafe.com.au http://www.stormsafe.com.au/ or visit www.nrma.com.au/ses