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Severe Storms Cause Damaging Winds
11/28/2018 (Permalink)
There are many concerns that come with severe storms, with one of those being the threat of damaging winds. These winds can come with little to no notice and can cause long-term structural impacts.
Tornadoes and hurricanes are probably what first comes to mind when thinking about damaging winds. However, those are not the only ones to be concerned about.
Traditionally, damaging winds are those with wind speeds exceeding 50–60 mph and can be the result of a strong thunderstorm. You will commonly hear damaging winds referred to as “straight-line” winds, which differentiates from the damage from a tornado.
The damage from these winds can be especially destructive. Straight-line winds can cause loose articles to become projectiles. Windows and the roof can take a beating from straight-line winds, and if it’s extensive enough, water damage can result as the outside elements come indoors.
Anyone who lives in a thunderstorm-prone area is at risk from damaging winds. Many structures can suffer from damaging winds, but there is one structure in particular that is especially at risk. For example, even mobile homes that are anchored can become a victim of wind gusts over 80 mph.
If your home has been hit by damaging winds and resulting water damage, our highly trained specialists at SERVPRO® of North Huntington are here 24⁄7 to help with cleanup and restoration of your home.
There are a number of ways you can help protect your property from damaging winds. Some are listed below, but keep the “Two R’s” in mind: reinforce and remove.
Have your garage door reinforced by a professional.
Remove or anchor loose items on your property that could be blown around and tossed by the wind. This includes trash cans, grills and outdoor furniture.
Hire a professional to remove any large or dying trees and branches that could be blown over onto your home.
We don’t always receive advanced notice about straight-line or damaging winds. But, as we all know, being proactive with some of the above preventive items may just protect you from damage.
Also, if you are building a new home or renovating an older home, make sure that the windows, walls and doors are meet the building code for your area.