Prepare for Summer Storms

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is the time of year we make plans most often. We plan trips and vacations, sporting events and long weekends.

Sometimes we even plan to have no plans and enjoy a day outside doing absolutely nothing. It’s the warmest time of the year, so we anticipate all the days will be filled with sun and we can soak up as many rays as we want.

But have you ever noticed how often summer plans get derailed by thunderstorms?

If you’ve ever thought that storms are more likely to cause cancellations in summer, it’s not just you. July and August are the rainiest months of the last three quarters of the year, and the warmth of the summer air combines with the atmospheric moisture to turn regular rains into potential thunderstorms.

Be Storm-Alert

We often don’t give storms the credit they’re due because they’re the most common weather danger—but the threat they present should never be ignored. Tune into local forecasts or use weather apps for timely forecasts and alerts. An NOAA Weather radio can also be helpful, because it focuses on weather and stays on even if power and cell service goes out.

If flooding is predicted, you should rethink your travel plans and stay home, or get home quickly if you’re out on the road. If forecasters warn about heavy winds, check around your yard and store items that may get blown away or carried off by running water.

Yes, getting ready for a storm is a chore, and not the kind of task anyone wants to do, but we mustn’t ignore it. Storm-related deaths reach into the dozens every year, and a little prevention could save many of those lives.

Be Storm-Safe

During a storm, your greatest protection from danger is indoors. Stay inside until you haven’t heard any thunder for at least a half hour—that’s your signal that the storm has moved on and you’re outside the range of a lightning strike, which can occur up to 10 miles away from the storm.

Wait until after the storm to bathe or shower, as metal and water are hyper-conductors of electricity. And avoid windows as much as possible, as there’s always a danger of them being shattered by lightning, or even debris.

Keep an emergency kit stocked with food, water, medication and other supplies you may need if you’re forced to evacuate or go several days without power.

Stay away from flood waters, whether you’re on foot or in a vehicle. Rushing water can easily carry away full-size SUVs, and even touching floodwater is dangerous because it may be contaminated.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

SERVPRO of Fort Dodge

515-955-4009