Wales is being warned to prepare for a wet and windy winter with extreme weather conditions becoming more frequent.

Communities across Wales experienced devastating flooding and storms last winter, before prolonged dry conditions, drought and significant wildfires affected many parts of the country during the summer.

As climate change continues to bring more frequent and intense weather extremes, NRW is reminding people that flood risk can quickly return as autumn and winter weather arrives.

Jeremy Parr, Head of Flood and Incident Risk Management at Natural Resources Wales, said: "Wales is no stranger to extreme weather, and many communities will still be feeling the effects of flooding and storms experienced last winter, as well as drought and wildfires this summer.

"After a dry summer, flood risk may not be at the forefront of people's minds, but the change in seasons can bring very different weather conditions very quickly. Just because you've never experienced flooding before doesn't mean you're not at risk.”

The campaign comes as the Met Office's long-range outlook for autumn indicates an increased likelihood of wetter, windier and milder conditions than normal.

Sarah Davies, Met Office Head of Environment and Energy said: "The Met Office's outlook for autumn and early winter indicates an increased likelihood of wetter, windier and milder conditions than average, bringing a greater chance of weather-related disruption, although periods of dry and settled weather will still occur.

"Weather patterns can change quickly at this time of year, and long-range forecasts describe broad seasonal trends rather than the timing, location or severity of individual weather events. Whatever the season, understanding your flood risk and knowing what action to take if warnings are issued are sensible steps that can help you prepare should severe weather occur."

NRW continues to invest in flood risk management schemes designed to reduce flood risk to communities where engineering solutions are feasible and can provide long-term benefits.

One example is the proposed tidal flood risk management scheme in Cardigan, which aims to reduce tidal flooding affecting homes, businesses and infrastructure along The Strand and the banks of the River Teifi in Ceredigion.

The proposals include a new tidal flood wall, improvements along The Strand and the creation of new areas of intertidal habitat.

Community flood plans are becoming an increasingly important way of helping communities prepare for severe weather. Developed by local residents and volunteers, these plans help identify local flood risks, support vulnerable neighbours, set out practical actions before, during and after a flood, and enable communities to respond quickly when warnings are issued.

A community in Cardigan, Ceredigion is already taking action.

Local resident Jane Roche, who runs a café and fishmongers on the banks of the River Teifi and has helped coordinate a community flood plan for the area, says being prepared is essential.

Jane Roche said: "Living and working beside the Teifi, flooding is something we've learned to live alongside for many years. We've seen first-hand the disruption it can cause for businesses, residents and visitors.

"We know not every flood can be prevented, but we can be much better prepared for them.”