We have possibly had too much of the above in the last couple of months, but when it comes to writing fiction I can’t think of anything more dramatic than this wild aspect of weather except thunder and lightning.

It represents conflict, the need to fight against the elements as well as other aspects – a fight to get to land aboard a sailing yacht, an old sailing ship in a Napoleonic battle or a dramatic rescue on the hills or in woodland. You can feel a storm’s strength and power as you or another character battles against it to achieve a particular goal.

The senses can be brought in to a situation – the howl of the wind as it is swallowed down a chimney disturbing the fire beneath it which spits and crackles in blue, yellow and orange with that distinctive wood smell – contrast between the wildness outside, and the cosiness of a domestic interior.

It might be cold, drenching and unpleasant but when it comes to writing – I love it!