Thousands of homeowners have been warned about a little-known threat of Storm Eowyn ahead of its 90mph winds this weekend.

       Ahead of the weather system’s arrival, coastal areas in parts of England and most of Wales have been warned to batten down the hatches, with warnings in place across the whole country.

       However, Security Specialist at Ultion Alex Dutton has suggested Storm Eowyn could also be an opportunity for burglars.

       Alex said: “When weather conditions make it hard for neighbours or passers-by to spot unusual activity, burglars are more likely to strike. A storm-damaged property, or a home left unattended during severe weather, sends a signal that the house may be less secure than usual.”

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       “Burglars often scope out areas where damage is visible or houses are left unoccupied for longer periods. They know that even a temporary breach in security could be their chance to get in.”

       On what people can do to protect their homes, Alex advised installing locks that have been tested for extreme weather conditions, keeping locks maintained, strengthening windows and doors, and keeping a close eye on empty homes.

       What’s more, Alex also warned homeowners to keep an eye out for fake repair scams once the storm has passed. He warned: “After a storm, criminals may pose as repairmen offering ‘cheap fixes’ for storm damage. Always verify the credentials of any contractor before agreeing to work or letting them near your property.”

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       Alex’s warnings come as the Met Office issues a series of weather warnings for parts of western England and Wales with winds beginning to pick up from Thursday ahead of the storm’s peak later this week.

       In a statement, the Met Office’s Deputy Chief Meteorologist Mike Silverstone said: “There are currently a number of weather warnings in place, with all parts of the UK covered by one warning at some point on Friday.

       “Storm éowyn is expected to cross Northern Ireland early on Friday morning. It will then continue northeast across the northern half of Scotland during Friday afternoon and is expected to be centred near Shetland during Friday evening.

       “The strongest wind gusts are likely to be felt across parts of Northern Ireland, southern and central Scotland, northern England and northwest Wales, where exposed sites could get gusts in excess of 80mph, possibly 90mph, which has the potential to cause impacts for those in these areas. The focus for the highest winds shifts to Scotland on Friday night into Saturday.”