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Spring Weather Can Be Unpredictable. Are You Ready? | SERVPRO® of Van Nuys South
5/17/2019 (Permalink)
We have entered into the spring season, which means we also need to be aware of the weather Mother Nature may choose to send our way.
Spring, of course, means longer days and more sunshine, but unfortunately, it also means the threat of severe weather throughout the country. It’s an unpredictable season, which means the weather may change at moment’s notice.
The unstable temperatures of spring are the cause for the changing weather. They can go from warm to cold in just an hour, and that temperature change can result in extreme weather changes as well.
Thunderstorms become a more common occurrence during spring and are what can cause severe weather. A thunderstorm can occur whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, which is most common in the spring and summer.
In a past study, one of the causes for natural catastrophe losses in the U.S. for 2017 were severe thunderstorms—and they were responsible for some of the costliest losses. Out of 50 events, there were 85 fatalities and an estimated total of $25.4 billion in overall losses.
Those storms can bring with them the threat of flooding, high winds and even tornadoes if the conditions are right. It has been found that in modern history, 10% of all violent tornadoes have occurred in March, with April, May and June taking the top spots at 30%, 24% and 15% respectively.
Weather prediction is tricky, and while we may not be able to predict the weather with 100% accuracy, forecasters have the tools available to forewarn us that there is the possibility of severe weather. Advanced warnings, along with the right preparation, can greatly improve overall safety for your family.
Here are some things you can do to your home to prepare for the chance of severe weather:
- Clear out your home’s gutters, drains and downspouts.
- Trim trees of precarious limbs or branches that could break off in a storm.
- Secure or store outdoor belongings if severe weather is in the forecast.
Having an emergency kit on hand is always advised. These kits should include the following:
- Battery-operated flashlight and NOAA weather radio, with extra batteries for both
- Emergency evacuation or shelter plans
- Important personal info, like telephone numbers of neighbors, family and friends, insurance and property info, numbers for the utility companies, and medical info
- A first-aid kit with things like non-latex gloves, adhesive bandages, tweezers, sterile gauze pads, aspirin packets, adhesive cloth tape and scissors
- 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
- Personal hygiene items
- Blankets or sleeping bag
Despite its unpredictability, there is one thing that always remains true of the spring weather season: It always happens. If your home or business is damaged in a storm, you can depend on SERVPRO® of Van Nuys Southto get the cleanup and restoration process started fast.