Thunderstorm Hazards

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Around the world approximately 16 million thunderstorms occur each year, 100,000 of which occur within the United States.  About 10% of those 100,000 storms are considered to be severe. A severe thunderstorm, as defined by the National Weather Service, is when the winds during the thunderstorm reach 58 mph or greater, possibly accompanied with ¾ inch hail, and even tornadoes. Typically, there are only a few ingredients to form a thunderstorm: moisture, especially in the lower levels, unstable air, cold air over warm air, and a source of lift such as a cold front, sea breeze, or low-level overflow boundary from a cluster of smaller thunderstorms. Lightning occurs in all thunderstorms and is very dangerous. The rising and descending air within a thunderstorm that separates positive and negative charges is what cases the lightning.

What Kind of Damage Can a Thunderstorm Can Cause?

Thunderstorms carry an array of difficulties, bring with them several types of dangerous weather events. Rainfall that is associated with thunderstorms can cause flooding, tornadoes, and of course lightning. Lightning can easily cause fires to homes if contact with certain materials is made. Additionally, hail is also a possibility and can cause damage to roofs, glass, vehicles, and even livestock. Wind damage is also a threat during thunderstorms, it can rip up powerlines and trees, and damage the exterior of a home. Damage to your property can culminate in wind, fire, and water damage, all of which need to be addressed as soon as it is safe.

How to be Prepared

You can prepare you home for a thunderstorm by removing loose branches and regularly clearing rain gutters. Make copies of personal property records and of important documents to store offsite. Above all, stay informed! The National Weather Service issues watches and warning of potential thunderstorm. Ensure that your family has an emergency plan and emergency kits with water and non-perishable foods, along with other essentials like chargers, batteries medications, comfortable shows, and even pet supplies.

SERVPRO® of Columbia County can help mitigate the damages that occur during a thunderstorm. Whether it be wind, water, or even fire damage, we can handle it all – give us a call at (706) 868-5441, where trained professionals are “Here to help. ®”