Northern beaches recorded the most wild weather claims in NSW over summer

And new data released by NRMA shows that the northern beaches recorded the most wild weather claims in NSW over summer (from December 1 to February 28) - that's before the flood crisis hit - with 11.3% of all claims.

ALSO READ: Flick through this week's Northern Beaches Review

The latest NRMA Insurance Wild Weather Tracker shows the insurer recorded more than 15,000 home claims for severe weather damage during summer as Australians faced record rainfall, floods and heatwaves. This was 53 per cent more than last summer.

In NSW, there were 9,507 home claims for damage caused by wild weather, which accounted for 70 per cent of all home insurance claims - 41 per cent more than last summer.

The tracker data revealed that Cromer was the most wild weather-impacted suburb in Sydney in summer.

ALSO READ: Lochie Daddo's property pivot

The next most affected suburbs in the northern beaches were Dee Why, Wheeler Heights, Narraweena and Collaroy Plateau.

Further research of 1000 residents found that northern beaches and north shore locals rated themselves as least prepared in NSW for wild weather - with the area's self-assessed wild weather ready score falling 10 points to just 54/100.

NRMA Insurances Natural Perils Executive Manager Mark Leplastrier called for urgent disaster mitigation funding to protect lives and property.

ALSO READ: War wounds still fresh for Stanley Falinski

"As individuals, we are not powerless. Every household can play a role in being better prepared for severe weather," he said.

"This includes having an emergency plan and kit and knowing how to stay safe when wild weather hits."

With La Nia expected to linger longer than expected, heavier than usual rainfall and elevated flood risk is forecast throughout autumn. Claims data for March will be available in the autumn report, released in June.

ALSO READ: Keen to meet more northern beaches locals?

"We must take the opportunity to build back to better standards and consider the future risks of an area when planning or zoning," Mr Leplastrier added.

"Otherwise individuals, communities, businesses and governments are left more vulnerable to widespread destruction time and again."

Have something to say? Send a letter to the editor at: editor@northernbeachesreview.com.au

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: