Spring Storms Bring High Winds

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Spring Storms Bring High Winds to Northeast Collin County/Greenville

Severe spring storms bring a multitude of concerns, and high damaging winds are always a threat during a severe storm. These winds can take you by surprise and can be problematic due to the long-term structural impacts.

Why High Winds Can Be So Dangerous

Damaging high winds are not always a product of tornadoes or hurricanes. Traditionally, damaging winds are considered those with wind speeds exceeding 50–60 mph and can spawn from a strong thunderstorm.

These damaging high winds are commonly referred to as “straight-line” winds, differentiating the damage from them as opposed to tornado damage.

Straight-line winds can be especially destructive, as they can cause loose objects to become projectiles. Your windows and roof can take the brunt of this damage, and if it’s extensive enough, it can cause resulting water damage to the home as the outside elements come indoors via damaged windows and roofs.

If you live in a thunderstorm-prone area, you can be at risk for damaging winds, but there are some structures that are especially at risk. Mobile homes, even those that are anchored, can sustain extensive damage in wind gusts over 80 mph.

Tips for Better Protecting Your Home

There are a number of ways you can help protect your property from damaging winds, some of which are listed below, but keep the “Two R’s” in mind: reinforce and remove.

• Use a professional service to have your garage door reinforced.
• Loose items should be removed and/or anchored as they could be moved or tossed by the wind. Don’t forget the trash cans, grills and outdoor furniture.
• Large or dying trees and branches should be removed by a professional so they are not blown onto your home in the event of damaging winds.

There are times when we will not receive advanced warning about damaging high winds, but taking the time now to attend to some of these action items can save many headaches should damaging winds affect your home.

Also, if you are building a new home or renovating an older home, be sure all windows, walls and doors meet building code requirements for your area.

Should you find yourself in this devastating situation, the highly trained specialists at SERVPRO® of Northeast Collin County/Greenville are here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your home.