BRADFORD has an amber weather warning for rain in place from now until noon on Thursday.

Ahead of Storm Christoph, the Met Office has issued an amber flood warning across large parts of South Yorkshire and the West Midlands this evening and tomorrow, with heavy rain and snow melt across the hills likely to cause flooding to homes and businesses.

Also potentially cutting off some communities and causing significant travel disruption.

In preparation, Direct Line Home Insurance provides advice for householders on how to protect their homes.

Last winter more than 3,350 claims for flooding were received by insurers in the UK, with claims totalling an estimated £107million, with the average cost of repairing a flood damaged around £32,000.

In addition 7,100 claims were made for damage relating to vehicles damaged by floods and storms.

The impact of a flood can be devastating, with significant damage caused to flooring, furniture and contents around your home in a matter of minutes.

Brenda Munro, Head of field operations for Direct Line said: “With winter weather approaching and Storm Christoph on the way, householders should ensure they monitor weather warnings and take a few simple precautions to keep themselves and their properties safe from the winter weather."

For more details see Direct Line's website here

Direct Line has the following advice for householders at risk of flooding:

• Ensure any drains and gutters are clear of debris so rainfall can drain from your property effectively

• Place valuables, electrical items and important documents in high cupboards or take them upstairs to reduce the impact of any flood damage

• Ensure outdoor furniture and other items likely to float away are safely stored in your shed or garage, or secured to reduce the risk of these items causing secondary damage or being lost

• Establish an evacuation plan for your family. This will reduce the risk of injury to your loved ones and give you more time to save items of sentimental and material value

• While it is safe to use electrical equipment, keep up to date with the latest weather and flood warnings by monitoring local television, radio services and the Met Office website

• Store important documents, including insurance policy details and useful contact numbers in a watertight bag in a dry accessible place, preferably upstairs

• Make a list of useful numbers you may need – your insurer, your local council, the emergency services and the number of Floodline 0345 988 1188

• Buy and fit air brick covers and flood boards to block doorways

Direct Line has the following advice for householders if flooding occurs:

• Direct Line customers: If your property is damaged, please contact our 24 hour emergency helpline on 0345 878 5081 as soon as possible

• If you need to move to alternative accommodation, the cost is normally covered under your insurance policy, but please check this when speaking to the claims team

• When possible, take photographs of the damage to your building and contents or film it; this may help streamline the settlement of your claim

• Don't throw away possessions without first discussing it with your claims adviser, as they will need to be assessed

• Do not use electrical equipment or the gas supply until it has been checked by a qualified tradesman