Strong winds have emerged as the leading weather concern for Australians, with new research from NRMA Insurance showing their destructive and often underestimated impact. The latest Wild Weather Tracker revealed that two in three people have seen outdoor items become airborne during windy conditions, yet about half take steps to safeguard their property in advance.
Almost one-third of Australians have experienced damage to their homes or vehicles caused by wind. Concern about property damage is widespread, with 72% of respondents worried about strong winds – higher than for hail (56%) or bushfires (33%).
During winter alone, NRMA Insurance received more than 9,400 weather-related claims, 82% of which were storm-related. The insurer noted wild weather claims this year are already 32% higher than the total recorded in 2024.
Outdoor furniture (40%), pot plants (37%), trampolines (13%), and large umbrellas (19%) were among the most common items reported as blowing over or away. Beyond property damage, strong winds also contribute to power outages by knocking trees into powerlines.
NRMA Insurance executive manager property claims fulfilment Scott Lindsay noted wind is often a major contributor to wild weather that results in property damage.
“Wind is a powerful, invisible force that amplifies the impact of storms, cyclones, and even bushfires by spreading embers and driving rain in all sorts of directions,” Lindsay said.
He added that preparation is critical: “Once wind speeds or gusts reach 40 km/h it is no longer safe to carry out maintenance tasks such as trimming trees and branches or inspecting roofs, so choose a calm day to prepare your outdoor areas for storms or wind.”
Research also found one in three people feel unnerved by the sound of wind, while one in four avoid going outside on windy days.
NRMA Insurance meteorologist and senior weather risk analyst Kathryn Turner said Australians face some of the strongest and most variable winds in the world, influenced by tropical cyclones, polar systems, east coast lows, and severe thunderstorms.
“Spring marks the transition into the severe storm season for Australia, and for the season coming we may see an increase in East Coast Lows and severe thunderstorms across eastern Australia, with the potential for small to large hailstones developing during storms,” Turner said.
She urged people to check wind forecasts and secure outdoor items, park vehicles under shelter, and close all doors and windows. “Don’t underestimate wind as a hazard … checking the wind forecast and taking preparedness actions can protect your car, home and give you peace of mind this spring,” she said.
What steps should Australians take to protect their property? Share your insights in the comments below.
