Northumberland County Council has said it is 'ready' to support residents with Storms Dudley and Eunice on the way.
The authority faced severe criticism after its response to Storm Arwen in November, with some houses in rural areas of Northumberland out of power for more than a week. Across the North East, winds of up to 100mph uprooted trees and damaged buildings.
However, the council has said that preparations are well under way this time around based on the experiences from the four storms which have hit the North East in the past three months.
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An incident support room is being set up to coordinate activity and increased staffing numbers are being arranged to cope with the potential for increased demand. There are also teams working to ensure that drains and gullies are kept clear and plans are in place should there be damage or power cuts.
Residents have also been encouraged to secure loose items such as garden furniture and trampolines, parking cars in a garage where possible, and keeping them clear of buildings trees, walls and fences.
Councillor Colin Horncastle, cabinet member for community protection, said: “This will be a real joint effort and comes on the back of the four storms which Northumberland and the wider North East have suffered in the last three months.
“The council is ready to work alongside colleagues in other emergency services, utilities and local communities to do all we can to support residents and keep the county moving.
“We know some of our communities have already suffered a lot from previous storms. We have a great deal of sympathy for everyone affected and will do all we can to help those in need.
“As we prepare for these storms we’d once again like to thank the people of Northumberland – they've been fantastic in previous storms supporting each other, looking out for their neighbours and we’re confident we’ll see this again.”
Other organisations across the county have also issued advice on how to stay safe ahead of the upcoming storms. Allendale Community Fire Station posted a message on its Facebook page which read: "We are expecting two storms, Dudley & Eunice, to hit us on Wednesday and together they will last through to Saturday. Strong winds and heavy snow are currently forecast so PLEASE stay safe.
"Now is the time to stock up on essentials and ensure you have what you need to keep warm especially if we suffer further power outages. Your Allendale crew and all at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service will be monitoring the situation and will update you as things progress.
"We will, as always, be #ReadyWillingAble to respond and help you if needed.
"It’s time once again to be the community we know you are and check on each other, neighbours, friends and the elderly or infirm."
Northumberland National Park also issued a message on Facebook which read: "Please stay safe and continue to avoid woodland areas across Northumberland.
"Our team and partner organisations are still working hard to clear damaged and fallen trees from previous storms, and many still remain unsafe. Thank you for your continued cooperation."
