Keeping Out the Rain: Safety During Summer Storms in Fort Worth

Welcome to the (unofficial) summer season—a time for fun in the sun but also a time for unpredictable weather. Summer storms in Fort Worth can be dangerous and destructive, causing everything from flash floods to tornadoes. That’s why it’s crucial to be prepared and stay alert when these storms are forecast.

When a summer storm hits, your home can suffer extensive damage if you’re not ready. That’s why it’s essential to understand the potential harm that these storms can cause, including wind and hail damage, flooding, and power outages. In this blog, we’ll look at these sources of damage and provide tips to help you prepare for summer storms and keep you and your property safe.

Watching for Damage During Summer Storms in Fort Worth

Wind damage is a key factor when discussing summer storm damage.

Wind Damage. If you live in an area prone to high winds, they can wreak havoc on your home during a storm. Even moderate winds can impact your roof, windows, and siding. If a gust of wind is strong enough, they can uproot trees.  

Hail Damage. Small balls of ice, commonly known as hail, can devastate property. Hailstones can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size and often fall at high speed.

The most severe hail damage typically occurs during supercell thunderstorms, which are characterized by large, rotating updrafts or upward air movement. These updrafts can propel hailstones upward before they fall back to the ground. When hailstones fall from such great heights, they can acquire enough kinetic energy to create damage. 

Flooding. The combination of heavy rains and strong winds can rapidly overwhelm storm drains, causing water to back up and flood streets and homes. Flash floods can also occur when summer storms move through an area, creating dangerous conditions. They can happen within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, catching people off-guard. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and two feet of water can sweep a vehicle away.

It’s also important to know that most typical home insurance policies don’t include flood insurance. If you live in a high-risk area, talk with your agent about adding this important coverage.

Power Outages. Power outages are sometimes the result of a summer storm. Due to downed power lines, outages can last for hours, days, or even weeks. A lack of electricity can be a problem for those who rely on electrical medical equipment and those who live in hot weather regions where air conditioning is necessary. Power outages can cause food spoilage, water shortages, and transportation disruptions. 

Summer storms can also cause widespread damage to the electrical grid, leading to long-term power outages. Not having power can affect an entire community, causing business closures and a loss of income for residents. 

Power outages pose a serious threat to communities during summer storms.

How to Prepare for the Summer Storm Season

Every year, summer storms can take homeowners by surprise. While people may assume they are adequately prepared for severe weather, they often scramble to take the necessary precautions when a storm hits. Don’t let this happen to you. Here are some tips to keep in mind when preparing for a summer storm. 

• Make sure you have a plan if your power goes out. Have backup batteries for your electronics, and make sure your cell phone is fully charged.

Building an emergency kit ahead of time is recommended.

• Know where your emergency supplies are stored and make sure they are easily accessible. Prepare a kit with emergency items such as flashlights, medications, first aid, and bottled water. 
• Trim trees or branches that could potentially fall on your home during a storm.
• If a storm is approaching, secure any loose items around your property that could become projectiles in high winds. Things like patio furniture, garbage cans, and potted plants should be firmly tied down or stored indoors.
• If you live in an area prone to flash flooding, make sure you know where the nearest high ground is and plan to get there if your home starts to flood.
• Avoid going outdoors during a storm. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, do not go to areas likely to be affected by flooding or high winds.
• Ensure your gutters are cleaned and clear to drain water away from your home correctly.
• Double-check that your homeowners’ insurance policy is up-to-date and covers storm damage. 
• During a storm, always stay informed. Have a battery-powered weather radio to listen to the latest news and updates. You can also check the National Weather Service’s website. Remember that a severe thunderstorm warning is issued if a thunderstorm becomes severe. 

Managing Summer Storm Damage

As summer approaches, many homeowners start to prepare for bad weather. While it’s important to be ready for storms, it’s also important to know what to do if damage occurs. Here are some tips on how to deal with summer storm damage.

• If a summer storm damages your home, you should first assess the damage and call your insurance company.
• Do not enter a property that has suffered structural damage. Have a professional inspect it first.
• If flooding occurs, do not enter your home until the floodwaters have receded and it is safe to do so.
• If you have any damage from a summer storm, document it with photos or video for your insurance claim.

Coping with the aftermath of a summer storm can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Many resources are available to help you deal with the damage caused by severe weather and other disasters. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers valuable information on how to prepare for and respond to such situations. Additionally, your local Red Cross chapter can lend a hand if your home is damaged. 

With the proper preparation and a solid plan, you can minimize the impact of summer storms and manage the aftermath without feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Follow these tips to stay prepared.

Keep Your Home Dry from Storm Damage with PuroClean of Fort Worth!

If your home or business has been affected by water damage, don’t hesitate to contact PuroClean of Fort Worth. Our expert team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and quickly mitigate the damage caused by water. With state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, we can restore your property to its pre-loss condition in no time. Please don’t wait until it’s too late. Call us today for a free consultation at (817) 344-7202 or visit our services page.