Gusts of up to 70mph across western Wales mean a yellow weather warning has been issued with power cuts likely.

While you can prepare for the storm, the damage it causes can be harder to predict and power cuts happen without warning. Although engineers will work quickly to restore power, this can take time.

Being prepared for a power outage can help minimise its disruption and keep your family safe and comfortable while you wait.

Paul Collins, Technical Director of NICEIC – the UK's leading certification body for the electrical industry – offers his expert guidance...

Most storms come with warning, so now is the time to put together an essentials kit.

A fully charged torch is a must during a power cut. Keep your phone battery for communication purposes and for updates from your electricity provider. If possible, store a torch on every floor of the house in an accessible place – one being next to your bed – plus some extra batteries (if required).

Always avoid using candles during an outage as they pose a significant fire risk. Candles dotted around the house are at risk of being forgotten about, and walking around with a candle is ineffective and more likely to drip wax. Plus, it could dangerous if you trip while walking with a candle.

You may want to fill any available flasks or hot water bottles with boiling water too before any power cut happens. If your home and/or hot water is heated by a boiler or a heat pump, it will not work, unless it is supported by backup power, because these are typically powered by electricity

Never assume that your electricity provider knows that you have had a power cut. Failing to alert them early could prolong the outage. The sooner an engineer is sent out to investigate the cause, the sooner you’ll have your power restored.

To do this, simply call 105 to report the incident.

If your power has gone out, unplug all your smaller appliances and electrical equipment. Additionally, switch off larger appliances, such as electric showers using the switches. Doing so will prevent any electrical surge damage that may occur when the electricity is eventually restored. This advice is also essential during an electrical storm, to protect appliances from potential lightning strike power surges.

If your home is hit by lightning or experiences a power surge, first contact a NICEIC- registered electrician to assess any electrical damage to your home and ensure an electrical installation condition report (EICR) is issued to inform the repairs needed.

Some damage to electrical systems and appliances cannot be seen and any electrical repairs should always be carried out by a NICEIC-registered electrician – not yourself.

Your fridge and freezer won’t have power, which means each time either one is opened, it loses cold air, warming up the contents.

During a power cut, resist opening and closing your fridge and freezer unnecessarily because you never know how long the outage may last, and your food will go to waste.

If you are familiar with your consumer unit, and your electricity is not restored after the outage is reported to be fixed, you may be able to reset it. However, if you suspect there is a wider electrical issue, do not attempt to resolve it yourself, always contact a NICEIC-registered electrician to assess any electrical issues.

If your home is in an area frequently affected by severe weather, it is always a good idea to consult a NICEIC–registered electrician about your consumer unit to ensure that it is fitted with surge protection. This is an added layer of protection for your home and appliances in preparation for any future electrical storms and power cuts.