Summer Shower: Preparing Your Home Against Summer Storms in Nanaimo With Our Safety Tips

Summer is here, and with it comes the risk of severe weather. As much as we love the warmth of the sun and the long days, we can’t ignore that summer storms in Nanaimo can be some of the most destructive and dangerous weather events. These storms can bring torrential rain, flash floods, tornadoes, high winds, and hailstorms, which can cause significant damage to your property if you’re not prepared.

When a summer storm hits, it’s crucial to be ready and take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and your property safe. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of damage that summer storms can bring and provide tips on protecting yourself and your property. So, let’s dive in and get you ready for whatever the summer weather may bring.

The Potential Damage During Summer Storms in Nanaimo

Keeping your property safe from the storm’s wind damage can be challenging.

Wind Damage 

If you live in an area prone to high winds, they can wreak havoc on your home during a storm. Even moderate winds can impact your roof, windows, and siding. If a gust of wind is strong enough, they can uproot trees.  

Hail Damage

The small balls of ice, commonly known as hail, can devastate property. Hailstones can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres in size, often falling at high speed.

The most severe hail damage typically occurs during supercell thunderstorms, which are characterized by large, rotating updrafts or upward air movement. These updrafts can propel hailstones upward before they fall back to the ground. When hailstones fall from such great heights, they can acquire enough kinetic energy to create damage. 

Flooding

In areas with heavy rainfall and strong winds, storm drains can quickly become overwhelmed, causing water to build up and flood streets and homes. Flash floods can also occur unexpectedly during summer storms, creating dangerous situations. These floods can happen suddenly and catch people off-guard within just a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall. It’s important to note that even a small amount of moving water can be dangerous; just six inches can knock a person down, while two feet of water can sweep away a vehicle.

Moreover, it’s crucial to be aware that most common home insurance policies do not include flood insurance. If you live in a high-risk area, it’s not just a good idea, but a necessary step to talk to your insurance agent about adding this coverage to your policy.

Power Outages

Power outages are sometimes the result of a summer storm. Outages can last for hours, days, or even weeks due to downed power lines. A lack of electricity can be a problem for those who rely on electrical medical equipment and those who live in hot weather regions where air conditioning is necessary. Power outages can cause food spoilage, water shortages, and transportation disruptions. 

Summer storms can also cause widespread damage to the electrical grid, leading to long-term power outages. A lack of power can affect an entire community, causing business closures and income loss for residents. 

Severe summer storms can cause power outages throughout communities.

How to Prepare for Summer Storms in Nanaimo

Every year, summer storms can take homeowners by surprise. While people may assume they are adequately prepared for severe weather, they often scramble to take the necessary precautions when a storm hits. Don’t let this happen to you. Here are some tips to keep in mind when preparing for a summer storm. 

• Make sure you have a plan if your power goes out. Have backup batteries for your electronics, and make sure your cell phone is fully charged.

Keep an emergency kit nearby for any emergencies that might arise.

• Know where your emergency supplies are stored and make sure they are easily accessible. Prepare a kit with emergency items such as flashlights, medications, first aid, and bottled water. 
• Trim trees or branches that could potentially fall on your home during a storm.
• If a storm is approaching, secure any loose items around your property that could become projectiles in high winds. Things like patio furniture, garbage cans, and potted plants should be firmly tied down or stored indoors.
• If you live in an area prone to flash flooding, make sure you know where the nearest high ground is and plan to get there if your home starts to flood.
• Avoid going outdoors during a storm. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, do not head to areas that are likely to be affected by flooding or high winds.
• Ensure your gutters are cleaned and clear to drain water away from your home correctly.
• Double-check that your homeowners insurance policy is up-to-date and covers storm damage. 
• During a storm, always stay informed. Have a battery-powered weather radio to listen for the latest news and updates. Remember that a severe thunderstorm warning is issued if a thunderstorm becomes severe. 

Managing the Damage from Summer Storms in Nanaimo

As summer approaches, many homeowners start to prepare for bad weather. While it’s important to be ready for storms, it’s also important to know what to do if damage occurs. Here are some tips on how to deal with summer storm damage.

• If a summer storm damages your home, you should first assess the damage and call your insurance company.
• Do not enter a property that has suffered structural damage. Have a professional inspect it first.
• If flooding occurs, do not enter your home until the floodwaters have receded and it is safe to do so.
• If you have any damage from a summer storm, document it with photos or video for your insurance claim.

If you encounter damage caused by a summer storm, don’t worry. Plenty of resources are available to help you handle it, such as your local Red Cross chapter.

Staying prepared is essential to minimizing the damage caused by summer storms. Follow our tips and create a plan in advance to manage the aftermath without feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Keep Out the Storm with PuroClean Restoration of Nanaimo!

Don’t wait to address the issue if you’re in Nanaimo and face water damage in your home or office. Water damage can cause severe structural damage and health hazards if not handled quickly and effectively. That’s where PuroClean Restoration of Nanaimo comes in! Our certified technicians are equipped with state-of-the-art restoration equipment to handle any water damage situation. We’ll work tirelessly to restore your property to its pre-loss condition promptly and efficiently. Contact us today at (778) 906-0911 to schedule an appointment, and let us care for your water damage restoration needs.