Storm Damage Resources

According to the National Earthquake Information Center, approximately 55 earthquakes occur daily around the world, totaling 20,000 each year. Given the frequency and unpredictability of earthquakes, preparedness is essential for safety. Did you know one of the greatest concerns with earthquakes is the damage that can result from ground vibrations, and how that can impact natural and manmade …

Fall is a unique season, signifying the end of summer and beginning the transition from warmer to cooler weather in North America. But what specific weather events are associated with this season? Are there specific weather threats to be aware of, once Labor Day arrives, kids return to school, and beach vacations wind down? This article outlines common fall weather events, and how SERVPRO® can …

Across the globe, weather events known as hurricanes form in the ocean, sometimes striking land with incredible force (or, if conditions are favorable, dissipating before they have a chance to reach land at all). Additionally, there often seems to be multiple terms used on the news, such as “typhoon,” “monsoon,” or “tropical cyclone.” So, when it comes to oceanic activity, what exactly is the …

With the United States averaging over 1,200 tornadoes every year, these natural disasters are more common in America than any other country in the world. If a tornado has been spotted or indicated by weather officials, but you do not have immediate access to a tornado shelter or basement, it is important to prioritize your safety and know where to go. The key to reducing the risk of injury and …

Areas on the coast are particularly susceptible to hurricanes, but with so many weather terms, it can be overwhelming to stay up to date with the latest news and information. Still, the damage from typhoons, intense storms, flooding, and more is not something to take lightly. So, what exactly is the difference between a coastal flood watch, warning, and advisory? And in addition to coastal …

Tornadoes can strike without warning, severely damaging homes, businesses, and other properties, in addition to threatening health and safety. Despite their speed, the damage they leave behind can linger, as regions and entire communities work to pick up the pieces and put their lives—and livelihoods—back together. But after cleanup and restoration take place, how exactly does the rebuilding …

Tornados, severe storms, heavy winds, natural disasters, and hurricanes can knock the power out in your home or business in an instant, and even leave you without shelter for days on end. In some cases, it can take a week or more to restore power after a natural disaster, leaving you and your family without any way to access food, water, cash, or other supplies. Having a well-stocked storm …

Tropical Storm Alberto is the first named storm of the 2024 hurricane season. The National Hurricane Center says the storm formed in the Gulf of Mexico and will bring rainfall totals from five to ten inches across northeast Mexico and Texas. Although not as powerful as a hurricane, a tropical storm brings with it it’s own dangers and it is important to know the severe weather risks that can …

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is underway and this year weather officials are predicting above-average hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting as many as 17 to 25 named storms this year, with eight to 13 predicted to become hurricanes. While these storms can be destructive, devastating, and deadly, there is more to …

Storm surge is a term you often hear during hurricane season. This extreme weather condition is caused by winds of a storm system pushing water toward the coastline. A storm surge can cause massive flooding and leave destruction in its wake. However, there are steps you can take to plan for storm surge, which can help minimize damage to your property and belongings.  Given the 2024 hurricane …

Summer has arrived, bringing with it a heat dome stretching from the Midwest to the northeastern portion of the United States. Record high temperatures and blistering heat are on tap. The Midwest and East Coast are experiencing a wave of extreme heat, with temperatures forecasted to reach close to 100°F (38°C) in many cities. Outrider states that a heat dome, “occurs when a persistent region of …

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins June 1, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasters say this year will be a busy one, with up to 25 named storms. In fact, scientists are predicting an “extraordinary” hurricane season with lots of activity. While hurricane season can be unpredictable, one thing is certain: no matter how severe the 2024 hurricane season is, …

2024’s hurricane season looks to be one of the strongest on record, and SERVPRO® is here to provide an outlook. Whether you live right on the coast or inland, it is never too early to prepare and begin gathering information about these intense, oncoming storms in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.Colorado State University and The Weather Channel forecast 23 named storms and 11 hurricanes in 2024. …

Lightning is a fascinating weather phenomenon, but how does it work? And how can you protect your property against it? We’re Here to Help® ensure you adequately protect your home, business, or other property anytime a severe storm is on the horizon. Whether you need assistance with storm damage cleanup, fire damage restoration, or more, SERVPRO® is always available, with 24-hour emergency …

During hurricane season, the term “storm surge” is used a lot. This phenomenon is one of the dangers that comes along with a hurricane. In fact, storm surges have the potential to make a hurricane even more deadly than the high winds, torrential rain, and tornado risk that already make these potentially lethal storms a danger to life and property.  NOAA states storm surge is, “The abnormal rise …

The center of the United States, often referred to as the Great Plains, is no stranger to severe weather. In fact, Tornado Alley, which includes northern Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, parts of Louisiana, Nebraska, Iowa, and eastern Colorado, according to AccuWeather, carves a path straight through the center of the continental U.S. But why is this specific region so prone to tornadoes, …

The desert states in the U.S., which generally include Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, experience what is frequently called “monsoon season.” But what exactly is involved in monsoon season, besides intense storms, and heavy rainfall? How does this tropical season affect home and business owners? And what can be done to prepare? …

Winter Emergency Survival Kit: What to IncludePutting together an emergency winter kit can be crucial if you live in an area prone to heavy snowstorms or blizzards, or if your region is forecast for a long period of winter weather. If the power goes out, or you are unable to leave your home for a period of time, this type of kit could be the difference between catastrophe or calm. But what …

Snow can be nice to look at when you’re snug beneath a blanket, watching safely from inside with a mug of your favorite hot drink. But it can also be dangerous to you and your property. In fact, snow drifts, ice dams, icicles, and more can wreak havoc on your home…but how? And what can you do to help with snow removal around your house?  According to Insanitek and Hewitt’s Garden Centers, snow …

In January 2024, a polar vortex (also known as a “bomb cyclone” or “freeze event”) covered a big portion of the continental United States, bringing frigid temperatures, dangerously low wind chill, and snow across the Northeast, Midwest, and South. But what exactly is a polar vortex, and how does it form? More importantly, can you prepare for it? The National Weather Service defines a polar …

Most of us don’t even consider what life would be like without electrical power until we don’t have it. Any type of storm can take your home off the power grid for a few hours or even days in the most extreme circumstances. When that happens, your first concern may be finding an alternative power source like a portable generator to keep you and your family comfortable until the electricity can …

Let’s face it—freezing pipes are a headache. Worse, they can be dangerous, causing leaks, flooding, mold, and more inside your home or business. As temperatures fall across North America each winter, plunging below 32º Fahrenheit (0º Celsius), homes and businesses must cope with the change. But how can you help ensure your water pipes don’t freeze? Whether you have copper or plastic pipes, it is …

You might be familiar with the weather terms El Niño and La Niña, but have you ever heard of a Super El Niño? If not, you’ve come to the right place, as some meteorologists indicate the winter 2023 forecast calls for a Super El Niño.A Super El Niño could bring some unexpected weather extremes. If it does, you can count on SERVPRO® to help with cleanup, restoration, and construction for your home …

Hail - it’s a mark of strong thunderstorms and the one frozen precipitation that can occur in the middle of a summer heatwave. The National Weather Service reported that there were 4,436 hailstorms in 2022 alone – the majority of these events happening between May and September. We have compiled the most frequently asked questions to help you be more weather aware and better equipped should a …

As some of the Atlantic hurricanes made their way up the northeastern coast of the United States and Canada this summer, quite a few have significantly increased the risk of dangerous rip tides along the beaches. The intense winds and low-pressure system associated with hurricanes and strong storms can drastically alter oceanic conditions, leading to the formation of dangerous rip currents.  Weat…

Hurricane Lee is forecast to impact the east coast of the United States in the coming days. To help you track the storm as it approaches and makes landfall, SERVPRO® has put together some resources to help you follow the path of the storm. Remember, hurricanes are unpredictable no matter what category or strength, so it is important to be prepared, stay safe, and know where the storm is in …

The weather term “La Niña” may conjure up images of intense storms, hurricanes, and bitterly cold winter weather. Like its sibling El Niño, the La Niña weather pattern is an important part of global climate and can indicate what type of storm seasons to expect on a large-scale basis for years at a time. Read on to discover how La Niña affects the weather, its meteorological definition, and how …

The weather phenomenon known as “El Niño” is a commonly used term during the summer hurricane season, but what does it mean, exactly? And how does it affect our everyday weather? SERVPRO® has compiled important facts about this unique weather phenomenon below, so you can learn how it may affect your local weather, national weather, and even larger weather patterns around the world.In Spanish, …

Landslides are devastating natural occurrences, sometimes taking place with little to no warning. But what effects do they cause, and how can SERVPRO® help? Read on to learn about three major effects of landslides, and how SERVPRO is available 24/7 to provide cleanup, restoration, and construction efforts in the aftermath.  According to the USGS, a landslide is defined as “the downslope movement …

Chances are, you’ve heard the term “nor’easter” at least once. But what exactly is it? And how dangerous can this weather event get? In short, these powerful winter storms can cause gale force winds, abundant snow, and torrential rain, which may lead to flooding.This article covers need-to-know items regarding these unique winter storms, and how SERVPRO® can help with the recovery if you find …

2023 has been a year of weather extremes. While SERVPRO® is available for all manner of storm damage cleanup for residential and commercial spaces, with such extreme weather, it is helpful to stay up to date on the latest environmental conditions both locally and nationally. Here are just some of the extreme weather events that have happened in 2023.The state of Arizona has experienced …

Storm damage from hurricanes can range from minor damage to major destruction. But with five categories routinely referenced each year during hurricane season, you may be wondering just what each category means, and the dangers associated with them. This article delves into the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale and details how SERVPRO® can be of assistance after a hurricane damages your …

Tornadoes are recognized as some of nature's most violent storms. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the United States experiences an average of 1,200 tornadoes per year. These destructive funnels, born out of powerful thunderstorms, can result in fatalities and reduce communities to rubble in seconds. The aftermath of a tornado is frequently characterized by chaos …

Winter storms can cause significant damage to your home and property, so it’s important to take the proper precautions to winterize this space before the weather gets too cold. While SERVPRO® is always available to assist with your cleanup, restoration, and construction needs in the event you are struck by winter storm damage, the following article outlines some helpful tips on how you can …

Hurricanes can be devastating, causing costly damage and loss of life. Thankfully, there is usually a significant warning period before one makes landfall, and numerous analyses of where it may possibly set down. This article provides helpful information on these large-scale natural disasters, so you can be better prepared if you live in a region that is prone to hurricanes.To begin, hurricane …

Hail can cause serious damage. Ranging in size from a small pea to a grapefruit or larger, it can be destructive to property and deadly to humans and animals. In fact, the largest hailstone recovered in the United States (located in South Dakota in 2010) was an astounding 1.9375 pounds. But is it more likely to strike during a certain time of year? Does it depend on where you live? And …

The SERVPRO Customer Care Center operates 24/7, 365 days a year. When you dial 1-800-SERVPRO, you will be connected to a dedicated agent who will take your information down and send out a crew to assess the damage and assist as quickly as possible. Did you know the “CCC” receives hundreds of thousands of leads per year, and dispatches just as many? Furthermore, what’s the significance of those …

Winter storms are often unpredictable, bringing intense blizzards, sometimes feet of snow, sleet, icy roads, and countless other hazards to cities and towns across the United States and Canada. If you have the chance to prepare in advance, there are certain steps that are frequently recommended to ensure your home or business is ready to withstand the freezing temperatures, snow, and ice …

Just two days into the 2023 Hurricane Season and there is already a named storm.  Tropical Depression Two was upgraded to Tropical Storm Arlene on Friday afternoon. It is located in the eastern half of the Gulf of Mexico and is predicted to move south toward Cuba. According to the National Hurricane Center, maximum sustained winds in the system are near 40 miles per hour (mph) with higher gusts. …

June 1 marks the start of another Atlantic Hurricane Season and authorities are already weighing in with their opinions on how volatile this year’s season could be.Researchers at Colorado State University believe the 2023 Hurricane Season will result in 13 named storms during the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Scientists expect at least six of those storms to become hurricanes, with two of those …

The National Hurricane Center has updated the pronunciation guide for the Atlantic Basin Storm Names for the 2023-2028 hurricane seasons. The 2023 Hurricane Season officially starts on May 15 in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, followed closely by the beginning of Atlantic Ocean and Central Pacific Ocean Hurricane Seasons on June 1. All hurricane seasons end on November 30.  Each year, the NHC …

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your property, and appropriate maintenance can go a long way in extending its life and ensuring you stay safe from the elements, leaks, and other unwanted damage. But tarping a roof is not as easy as throwing a tarp overtop it and calling it a day. There is a recommended process that will help ensure your roof is properly cared for.Believe it or …

Hail is a weather event commonly associated with intense thunderstorms and tornadoes. But there is more to this unique weather phenomenon than meets the eye. For instance, there is a “Hail Alley” in North America. Unlike the more common Tornado Alley, Hail Alley covers a smaller portion of the United States.Want to know more about Hail Alley, where it is located, and how hail forms? Read on for …

There is no doubt a strong roof can mean the difference between minimal or severe damage when it comes to storms. Hail, high winds, and other serious weather events can all contribute to your home or business’s roof sustaining varying levels of damage, but the good news is, you can prepare for these events in advance. Additionally, if your roof suffers damage during a storm or other extreme …

Storms can have a devastating effect on your home or business. Tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, landslides, or other severe weather are often accompanied by intense thunderstorms that leave you with damage you aren’t sure how to handle. We understand the stress, confusion, and overwhelming feelings that often come with this type of damage. This article outlines SERVPRO®’s storm damage and …

Hurricanes are typically slower than other natural disasters like tornadoes and earthquakes, giving newscasters and meteorologists time to provide more advance notice. But what, exactly, should be included in your preparation for a hurricane? And, how do you recover from a hurricane if your home or business suffers storm damage? Read on for helpful tips and information on how best to make plans …

Derechos and tornadoes are violent weather events that have the capability of causing intense damage to your home or business. But what defines these two events? In the wake of severe derechos across the United States, and continuous tornadoes throughout North America, this article breaks down the difference between the two events and outlines SERVPRO®’s services that can assist you in the …

A mudslide can strike without warning, leaving your home, business, school, hospital, or other property devastated and in need of disaster restoration services. Given their incredible strength and ability to lift buildings from their foundation, it’s in your best interest to know the signs of an oncoming mudslide so you can best prepare yourself and evacuate if necessary. The following article …

Many of us are all too familiar with tornadoes and their associated thunderstorms, hailstorms, and the property damage these cause. In fact, it’s common to learn at an early age how best to prepare for these frequent natural disasters. Some general tips include going into your basement (if you have one) or navigating to a room without windows, staying low, and covering your head. While these …

A tornado can strike with little to no warning if conditions are favorable. Although tornadoes tend to occur in specific regions like Tornado Alley, it is important to remember they have occurred in all 50 states and can happen any time of year. Notably, they most frequently occur between 4 pm and 9 pm. With tornadoes, we often hear about the Fujita Scale rating, which measures the severity of …

Hurricane season is the time of year when hurricanes are most likely to form and occur in the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. In the United States, hurricane season typically runs from June 1st to November 30th.A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, which is a storm system that forms over warm ocean waters and has the potential to bring strong winds, heavy …

Severe weather can be defined in many ways, but typically it’s associated with weather events like thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. While your local climate influences the weather events you experience, it’s generally known that spring in all parts of the country often causes rapid fluctuations in weather patterns, temperature, precipitation, and more. This article outlines the …

With cold winter weather frequent in many regions of the United States and Canada, it’s always useful to make sure your home is prepared for winter storms, blizzards, bomb cyclones, and freeze events. Additionally, staying safe and warm during these cold winter months is essential. With the proper preparation and safety knowledge, you can make sure your family, home, and pets are protected from …

Storm and water damage affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO®  understands that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home.SERVPRO specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms and other water damage events. Our expertise and our “restore” versus “replace” …

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO has the experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to …