Six of Sydney's top-10 storm-affected suburbs are in western Sydney, NRMA Insurance research reveals

‘‘It’s no surprise western Sydney took out six of the top-10 storm-affected suburbs,’’ the SES Sydney Western Region’s community engagement co-ordinator, Katie Moulton, said.

‘‘There has always been particular hot spots for corridors that storm seems to track along, and the majority roll off the mountains into the Sydney basin heading east.’’

The NRMA Insurance ranking of Sydney’s 10 most storm-affected suburbs was revealed last week, as Premier Mike Baird and representatives from the State Emergency Services and the NRMA came together to urge NSW to prepare for another busy storm season.

‘‘Across a range of fronts, whether it be bushfires or storms, the expectation is that we’re in for a pretty difficult season, so we’re very clearly trying to advise the community to do all they can to be prepared for all types of events,’’ Mr Baird said.

Under looming grey clouds, the warning was well-timed, coming hours after two thunderstorm warnings had been issued.

Ms Moulton said that, despite statistics, it was important to remember major storm events could hit any time, anywhere.

‘‘We know it’s going to be a dry hot summer, but the likelihood of storms is always there,’’ Ms Moulton said.

Cleaning out gutters, trimming trees and branches and tying down outdoor furniture or trampolines are some of the ways homeowners can be prepared for a storm.

She said volunteers in her region routinely respond to leaking room, which she attributed to ‘‘poor maintenance of tiles or guttering causing water to enter either the wall or roof cavity’’.

‘‘This can cause significant internal damage,’’ she said.

NRMA Insurance data shows more than 75 per cent of all home claims in NSW in the last financial year were a result of storm damage, an increase of 30 per cent on the previous year.

Following Sydney’s severe April storms in which four people died, the NRMA processed more than 50,000 insurance claims in two weeks, equivalent to 10 months of claims.

“NRMA Insurance data shows that in a typical year around half of all home claims in NSW are due to storm damage,’’ Jen Cobley, NRMA insurance manager of partnerships and programs, said.

‘‘This surged to 76 per cent of all home claims in the last financial year, as a result of the April storms.’’

NRMA Insurance research shows people significantly underestimate the dangers of severe storms, and that three-quarters take no preventative measures.

Anthony Justice, chief customer officer for NRMA Insurance, said that as in bushfire situations, under-insurance for homes affected by storms can be an issue.

■ For emergency help in storms and floods call the NSW SES on 13 25 00. Details: http://stormsafe.com.au

■ Storm Season is a first-of-its kind documentary, now showing on TV. It captures the dramatic work performed by volunteers in the NSW SES including volunteers from the SES Sydney Western Region. Click here to read more.

■ 1011 storm jobs in Blacktown;

■ 937 storm jobs in Castle Hill/Baulkham Hills/ Kellyville;

■ 281 storm jobs in Rooty Hill;

■ 159 storm jobs in Greystanes.

1. Know your risk — Think about the area you live in and the type of disaster that could happen. Are you and your family at risk?

2. Plan for what you will do — Sit down and talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area.

3. Get your home ready — Prepare your home by doing general home maintenance, preparing a home emergency kit and checking your insurance.

4. Be aware — Find out how to prepare and what to do if there is a disaster in your area. Check the NSW Emergency Services websites or keep informed with smartphone apps and social media.

5. Look out for each other — Share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance.