UK households urged to lock doors and windows on Monday and Tuesday

UK households are being urged to lock their doors and windows on Monday and Tuesday as 85mph winds and heavy rain is forecast.

The Met Office has warned that Storm Floris will bring "unseasonably strong winds" to the UK early next week, with northern parts of the country to be the worst affected. A yellow weather warning has been issued from 6am on Monday, August 4, until 6am on Tuesday, August 5, covering 11 regions of the UK. The national forecaster says inland areas are likely to see gusts of up to 50mph, with wind speeds of up to 70mph possible along exposed coasts and high ground, particularly in Scotland.

But there is a chance of even stronger winds developing for a time, which could see inland gusts reach up to 70mph, while exposed Scottish coastlines and hills are warned to brace for 85mph winds. To add to the unsettled weather, the Met office says heavy rain may also contribute to disruption in places.

Households are being warned that power cuts could occur and mobile phone coverage could be affected, roads and bridges may close, and transport services may be disrupted, which could result in longer journeys and cancellations.

Ahead of the arrival of Storm Floris, households are being urged to lock their doors and windows to protect their homes and gardens from the powerful gusts.

Households are also advised to remove any loose items from gardens, such as outdoor lights, lanterns, hanging baskets and mirrors, as these could easily smash and break in blustery conditions.

Steven Walley, landscaper and gardening expert from London Stone, said: "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 precautions.

"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."

Additionally, washing lines, gardening tools and outdoor furniture should be packed up and stored away to avoid them blowing over and causing damage in your garden or to the outside of your property.

Mr Walley says it's also important to prepare the exterior of your home to help minimise any damage in harsh weather. He added: "To prevent overflowing of rainwater in your garden, make sure to clear moss and leaves from your guttering to ensure these are working properly. To do this, use a bristle brush to remove any debris from your gutter to remove loose leaves and debris that can block the pipes.

"Remember to check for hazardous branches that are loose or overhanging in your garden and remove them, as these could cause damage."

The Met Office said: "Prepare to protect your property and people from injury. Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds, and fences."