20 years ago and we got hit by a Hurricane. The whole of the South of England did. If you get winds like that on a regular basis- I am glad I live here.
And as to your lawn- Covering it in Snow probably protects it a great deal in the winter. Mine is green but is currently under water. Costs a fortune in time and fertilizer to get straight in the Spring.
__________________
How long was I in the army? Five foot seven.
Spike Milligan