Everything You Need to Know About Tornadoes

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

What To Do Before Tornado Season Begins 

Tornadoes can be a scary environmental event, but that does not mean you cannot prepare yourself for one. Make sure that your home insurance is up-to-date and has a wide variety of coverage. Policies generally need to be updated if anything has been changed, added, or removed structurally in the home. Create an inventory of all the items in your home and store it either digitally or in a secure location. This is an important part when updating your insurance plan. 

If you live in an area that is prone to tornadoes, building a safe room or reinforcing a room in your home may be a great idea. If you are unable to build a safe room, pick an interior room like a basement or a bottom floor bathroom to take shelter in. You will want to prep your tornado room with supplies such as: 

• Water
• Batteries
• A flashlight
• Portable chargers
• Non-perishable foods
• Hygiene items
• Trash bags

Installing up-to-code storm shutters is the best protection for your windows. Installing impact resistant garage doors is an extra preventative step that can be taken as well. Older doors are weakened through time and usage, and garage doors are typically the first element of the house to fail. Secure all cracks in your home's exterior to prevent any water from getting in during the storm. Make sure you research other ways you can tornado-proof your home before tornado season begins. 

When is Tornado Season in My Area? 

In the southern United States tornado season is from March to May, while in northern America it is from late spring through summer. Although tracked tornadoes typically occur between 3-9pm, tornadoes can develop at any time in any location. It is a good tip to know that tornadoes can also cross water and are often accompanied by storms and wind. The most common threat to your home during a tornado is the potential for trees to fall on them. Be sure to prune the trees that are closest to your house, ensuring that wind passes through the branches more easily without knocking them over.  

What To Do When a Tornado Watch Has Been Issued  

Start by bringing in any loose exterior items such as patio furniture, or anchor items down safely. Bring any pets you have inside. Make sure to move furniture indoors away from any windows. Make sure your windows are closed and safely secured. Open windows will blow unwanted water and debris into the home. 

Make sure that any emergency items are easily within reach such as cell phones or battery-operated radios. Be sure to listen to updates about the tornado from a weather broadcaster and do not leave your shelter until a professional says it is safe to do so.  

Does Your Home Need to Be Restored After a Tornado? SERVPRO® of South Augusta is here to make “Like it never even happened.” Give our professionals a call today at 706-843-1990!