Be Prepared for Summer Storms | SERVPRO of East Cobb

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of East Cobb is on the line, ready to make things right.

Ah, the dog days of summer, when the weather is warm, the days are long and the sun is always shining—isn’t it? It has to be, right? It’s the sunniest time of the year, so obviously the sun must always be out. Except it’s not.

If it sometimes seems that thunderstorms are likely to ruin your summer plans, it’s not just you. While August in the greater Atlanta area is about average in the number of rainy days, the moisture and warm air of summer combine to produce more storms during those rainy days.

Be Storm-Alert

Storms should never be ignored, even though they may be considered commonplace. Local warnings should always be heeded, and considerations should be made regarding sporting events or outdoor activities.

Flooding can happen unexpectedly in thunderstorms, and if you receive a flood alert you would be wise to cancel travel plans. And look around the backyard for items like patio furniture, garbage cans or trampolines that might get blown around in heavy winds—see if you can store them safely somewhere until the storm passes.

Storm preparation isn’t exciting, but it mustn’t be neglected—there are dozens of storm-related deaths each year, many of which could have been prevented. Getting an NOAA Weather radio will help you stay in the know, even if the power should go out.

Be Storm-Safe

Keep yourself out of lightning’s way and stay indoors. You can safely head outside again once the storm has passed far enough away for there to be no lightning for 30 minutes. This keeps you outside the 10-mile reach of potential strikes.

Windows can break because of flying debris, so keeping away from them can keep you out of harm’s way. And avoid showering or bathing during a thunderstorm, because your shower and tub are electrical conductors, as is the water in which you bathe.

Keep an emergency kit packed for extreme situations like tornadoes, which may result in long-term power loss or displacement from home.

If heavy rains bring flooding, seek out or stay on high ground where it’s safe, and don’t touch flood waters because they can carry toxins. Rushing water can also carry you or your vehicle off the road, so turn around if you’re driving when flooding begins and seek an alternative way home.

*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, contact SERVPRO of East Cobb, ready to make things right again.