Tips to Safeguard Your Home Against Stormy Weather | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of North Kenosha County has your back when you experience flood and water damage.

Thunderstorms, tornadoes, floods, blizzards—North Kenosha County sees a variety of severe weather throughout the year. You name it, we see it!

That means that we need to take extra precautions to protect our houses and properties from inclement weather that can seemingly strike in the blink of an eye. Taking preventive action now can help protect your home and your family later.

<h2to-prepare-seasonally">Things to Prepare Seasonally

Preparing your home for storms doesn’t have to overwhelm you. Storm-proofing can easily be seamlessly integrated into your typical routines—and some of these activities may already be on your regular house maintenance list.

As the summer warms up and storms become more common, it’s important to take steps to ensure your home can withstand them. For one, you need to check out the structure of your house, looking for gaps or places where you need to apply a new layer of caulk to prevent leaks and potential water damage. You should also have your roof inspected regularly for loose shingles, especially after powerful storms.

Prepare your property for storms, too. This includes regularly pruning your trees to remove dead or dying tree branches, which can become projectiles during a storm. You should also strap down or otherwise secure objects like patio furniture or trash cans that remain outside at all times.

<h2your-home-s-defenses">Enhancing Your Home’s Defenses

While many storm preparations can be done without incurring additional costs, you may want the added protection of some upgrades. Explore these options to strengthen your home’s resilience against storms.

Storm shutters can be helpful in protecting your windows if your house is in a location that’s susceptible to high winds. You may also want to consider investing in better windows overall, looking for options that are identified as storm-resistant.

If your house is surrounded by trees, it’s a good idea to install gutter guards to keep tree branches, leaves and other debris from clogging up your gutters. If gutter guards aren’t an option, you need to be sure your gutters are cleaned out often.

Live in a mobile home or have a modular building on your property? Those structures need to have secure tie-downs installed to make them more resistant to the wind.

In the unfortunate event of storm damage, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is available ²⁴⁄₇ to efficiently restore your home.

How to Handle the Aftermath of a Storm | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to restore your space in no time!

Weather is unpredictable, which means that storms can strike at any notice and leave a trail of damage and destruction behind. Despite preparing and getting ready as much as you can in advance, the sheer force of a severe storm can catch us off guard, leaving our homes in disarray.

In the aftermath of such an event, knowing what steps to take can make a big difference in how you move forward.

Prioritizing Safety First

Above all else, prioritize safety—for yourself and your family. If you’ve barely managed to reach your shelter with minutes to spare, take a moment to catch your breath and gather proper clothing, including sturdy shoes, before assessing the situation.

Once you’re in a secure position, take measured steps to ensure a swift recovery while continuing to safeguard your loved ones. This means avoiding further danger, thinking critically and helping others when possible.

Taking Immediate Measures After a Storm

Even as the storm fades, stay alert. Lingering rainfall, hail or lightning could still pose a threat. Keep your radio, phone and other communication devices within arm’s reach to stay updated.

Contact family and friends if communication channels are available once the immediate threat has subsided. Text messages are often an easier means of communication during emergencies, as storms can disrupt cell towers and phone lines can become flooded with calls.

If you can’t reach anyone on the phone, go to your neighbors’ homes, taking care on the way to avoid damaged buildings or paths. There’s always safety in numbers!

Moving Forward and Getting to Work

To get a jumpstart on your restoration work, document the damage to your home and property extensively through videos and photographs. You can reach out to our SERVPRO® team immediately to get work underway as well. We have plenty of experience dealing with insurance providers and can offer valuable insight throughout the process.

Though the aftermath of a storm can be disorienting, we know what it takes to restore order and we’re dedicated to seeing your home returned to its original condition! Our technicians can help you discuss all the ways to move forward, including how to future-proof your home against the potential for repeat storms. We can provide remodeling services to rebuild damaged structures and fortify existing ones so they can hold up over time.

Above all else, try to remain calm throughout the entire process. Storm damage can be heart-wrenching, but with a crew of well-trained professionals on your side, your property will be restored in no time. 

If a storm leaves your home damaged, contact us for fast recovery. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ when you need us.

Don’t Let Extreme Winds Ruin Your Day | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

6/9/2023 (Permalink)

If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of North Kenosha County your first call.

A cool breeze can be a lifesaver on a sweltering hot day. A nice gust of wind is a welcomed surprise when it’s muggy out, but at times it can take you by surprise for the worse.

Wind can either be a huge relief or a major hazard, and you can never tell when it might blow in and wreak havoc. You might expect dangerous winds to only strike on a cloudy day, but they can blow in on a clear day, too!

Be aware of the destruction severe winds can cause and learn how you can safeguard your home when they blow your way.

The Different Kinds of Wind

The NOAA claims that nearly half of reported severe wind events strike during thunderstorms. This is a danger that is worth preparing for, especially in the upcoming months.

Alongside a plethora of risky weather hazards, thunderstorms can produce winds of up to 60 miles an hour. Wind that blows this fast can pick up and toss around heavy debris.

Straight-line winds are one of the types of winds you might see during a thunderstorm. These winds can move insanely fast, at around 100 miles per hour, and they can wreak havoc on just about any region.

When you think of severe winds, tornadoes are probably the first thing that comes to mind. Tornadoes can also produce a variety of destructive winds such as straight-line winds, downdrafts and micro- and macro-bursts.

Tornadoes are uncommon in Kenosha, but our area is still vulnerable to threats such as thunderstorms and high winds. While tornadoes aren’t as widespread in our area, strong winds are something you can plan for to avoid damage.

Wind Damage and Prevention

Toppled trees, flying debris and downed power lines are just a few of the ramifications of dangerous winds. When these rampant winds reach up to 80 miles per hour, they can even pick up an anchored mobile home!

To keep yourself safe when severe winds blow, you’ll need to be able to receive and interpret local weather alerts Beyond staying weather-aware, it’s smart to fasten any outdoor furniture so you can keep it from being picked up by strong winds.

Cut down any trees or overhanging limbs that might be a danger to you and your home when winds get heavy. Keep extreme gusts from throwing outdoor debris at your Kenosha home by cleaning up any limbs outside too.

Once the wind has come and gone, search your entire property to make sure no damage has occurred. The roof is a good place to start since broken or missing shingles can quickly lead to water damage. If you do experience destruction after a severe wind event, our expert SERVPRO team can rapidly get your home back to its former glory!

Has your home been damaged by wind? Call us and get things cleaned up fast.

How Different Types of Flooding Could Affect You

4/9/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

In the United States, flooding is the most common natural disaster, killing more people every year than hurricanes, tornadoes, or lightning. Depending on how much excess water accumulates in an area, it can affect everything from individual homes to entire communities.

Each state and every U.S. territory are affected by flooding, but their types and causes are similar. There are three common types of flooding, and a variety of reasons can cause them.

3 Types of Natural Flooding

Flash floods are common, and they happen when heavy rain passes or sits over an area and overwhelms the ability of the ground to contain the moisture. Excess water runs off and takes garbage cans, cars and more with it.

River floods are exactly what they sound like. When there’s too much water for a river’s banks to hold, the water spills over the sides and causes destruction. In the span of just 10 years, FEMA issued five emergency declaration for the Fox River Floodplain in Kenosha County. The Fox River Flood Mitigation Program removed 56 structures with the help of grants from several organizations to temper flooding from Fox River. FEMA estimates the program helped avoid hundreds of thousands of dollars in flood damage.

Coastal floods happen in areas next to large bodies of water, when storm surges or cyclonic activity causes ocean or gulf levels to rise to flood levels.

The Most Common Causes of Natural Flooding

Heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms with excessive rainfall or storms that sit and rest over an area for an extended period of time can cause flash floods or river flooding. Rain floods in urban areas are more likely, as there is a lack of soil to soak up all that water due to the higher percentage of concrete and asphalt.

Oceanic activity. Storm surges, hurricanes and rising tides can cause waves to rise, which can wreak havoc on coastal towns.

Dams and levees failing. The most notable example of this in recent history would be the disastrous levee breaks during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. Whenever cracks develop or excess pressure exceeds the dam’s ability to contain a flood, levees and dams fail.

Snowmelts and ice dams. In areas of the United States where snowfall and prolonged freezing temperatures are common, snow and ice can build up over a winter’s time, causing rivers of water to flow through communities. Ice dams or ice jams happen when rivers become blocked by built-up ice being carried downstream, causing the banks to overflow.

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life.

Weather Hazard Diversity in the United States

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is near if you experience any damage

Due to the size of the United States, the weather trends are extremely diverse from region to region. Because of varying seasonal weather patterns from region to region, there are many distinct kinds of weather threats.

We’re going to explore what each of the nation’s major areas, including here in Wisconsin, may expect as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses collide throughout the country.

In the spring, flooding and water damage are common in the Pacific Northwest due to heavy rains. In higher elevation areas, it may also be difficult to deal with melting and runoff from spring snowfall.

In the Upper Midwest, including here in Wisconsin, and Northeast, winters are the longest and coldest in the country (as you are surely well aware of). It can be very cold all the way into late spring and early summer for the entire region, from Maine to the Dakotas. There will be a lot of snow during the winters and as the snow melts and warm air moves through, this area can anticipate flooding, severe storms and tornadoes all through the spring. Although tornadoes are not as common in Wisconsin as in other midwestern states, they do occur occasionally, particularly during the spring and summer months.

People and property in the Southwest and southern West Coast may be at risk during this season due to extreme heat waves that often approach triple digits. Tsunamis might potentially be caused by tectonic activity in the South Pacific, including Hawaii.

Wildfires are also a concern throughout the central United States, from Iowa to Texas, where they may spread quickly when conditions are dry and windy. Tornado Alley is also located in this region, which is particularly subject to severe spring storms.

Thunderstorms and tornadoes are prevalent in the Southeast, especially inland. Additionally, the region may encounter early-season storms and hurricanes along the coast.

It’s important to be prepared for severe weather regardless of where you live, even if your risk is different than that of a friend or family in another state. Each area of the United States has its own set of extreme weather threats that pose dangers to everyone.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

Summer Storm Readiness

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is on the line, ready to make things right.

It’s summer in Kenosha, and many of us have a calendar full of plans. The longer, sun-filled days beckon us to outside activites—maybe you’re heading to Milwaukee to catch some baseball (you wouldn’t sneak south to Chicago for that, would you?), or maybe you’re taking the kids to the Kenosha Splash Pad for some cooling off.

Whatever your plans are, though, you might want to pack an umbrella.

It definitely sounds strange, but the sunniest portion of the year is also a very active time for thunderstorms. The highest month of rainfall in Kenosha is August, and the atmospheric conditions of humidity and warm air are more likely to produce thunderstorms as part of that rain.

Be Storm-Alert

Storms can pop up on about any summer afternoon. Pay attention to local alerts or notifications from your weather app. An NOAA Weather radio can keep you up on the latest information as well, even if power or cell service drop out.

If flood watches or warnings are issued, you should rethink those travel plans and postpone outdoor activities. Make a check around the house as well, because there may be items which need to be tied down or moved so they don’t blow away or get washed down the street.

Preparing for a storm is much less exciting than watching Christian Yelich swat, but it’s essential if you want to stay safe. Storms result in a number of deaths every year, and most of those fatalities could have been prevented with some extra caution or prevention.

Be Storm-Safe

Being outdoors is dangerous during a storm, so keep it inside. Lightning is a threat until the storm has moved 10 miles or so away. You’ll know you’re safe when you haven’t heard thunder for a full half hour.

Showers and baths are dangerous inside, because the water and metal can conduct electricity if lightning strikes the house. Windows are sketchy as well, as they can shatter because of lightning (or even debris in heavier storms).

Keep an emergency kit stocked and ready, with supplies, food and medicine you may need if power loss is extended. A mobile kit in the car can keep you ready as well if evacuation becomes necessary.

In the case of flooding, stay inside and stay on high ground. Don’t risk driving in floodwater, because it can cause or conceal all sorts of danger. Avoid coming in contact with flood water as well, because it is full of contaminants.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

The Increasing Cost and Frequency of Severe Storms

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to start the restoration process.

2020 was a year that inflicted all sorts of punishment. Many of us were affected by the pandemic in one way or another, and almost all of us felt the effects of an extended national quarantine.

And on top of all that, the year also turned into one of the most violent in history in regard to extreme weather. In fact, 2020 saw more weather disasters than any previous year for which we have data.

Storms or weather events are officially classified as disasters when they cause a billion dollars in damage. There were 22 of these unfortunate occurrences in 2020, crushing the previous mark of 16, which was set just a few years prior.

And of course there were many other weather calamities that didn’t reach the billion-dollar threshold—there were so many cyclones in the Atlantic, for example, that the National Weather service ran out of names and had to use Greek letters to name the rest of the year’s storms.

Not Just Hurricanes

It’s common to point the finger at hurricanes when it comes to financially disastrous storms. But last year, it happened that the most expensive disasters of 2020 in the contiguous United States were thunderstorms and tornadoes: More than 60% of the disasters on record were thunderstorms or storm-related events.

In August, a single storm system that began in Nebraska took out over 100 million acres of corn fields—an area more than 150,000 square miles—jeopardizing over 11% of the entire country’s corn production, and half the crop of the state. That same storm reached us all the way in Kenosha and Racine, causing flooding, downed trees and a sizable sinkhole at Quarry Lake Park.

Not Just 2020

While we certainly hope for gentler years to come, it does seem that 2020 was part of an unfortunate trend of extreme weather years. Every year since 2011 has brought at least eight billion-dollar events, and several of those years have set records of their own, including 2017, when storms caused over $300 billion in total damages.

Thunderstorms and extreme weather are possible year round, and precautions against storm and water damage should be a regular part of every homeowner’s preparations. But if extreme weather overwhelms your preparation or causes other damages, remember SERVPRO is on call 24 hours a day for emergency help.

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

How Thunderstorms Impact Wisconsin

5/23/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County if you experience any damage.

The dark, gray clouds and rumble from the sky only means one thing: A storm is coming our way. But how serious is the storm expected to be and what necessary precautions do you need to take? This all depends on the classification of the storm: thunderstorm or severe thunderstorm.

A thunderstorm is defined as any storm that has thunder and lightning. These types of storms are commonplace, happening about 40 days of the year in Wisconsin.

However, a severe thunderstorm not only has thunder and lightning, but also contains hail that is at least one inch in diameter and has straight-line winds of 58 miles per hour, at minimum. The National Weather Services issues on average five to 10 severe thunderstorm warnings per county per year in the southern counties. How does this type of storm affect your home and how can you keep it safe?

The 3 Major Elements That Make a Severe Thunderstorm Dangerous

Lightning. These bolts are commonly considered the most dangerous element of a thunderstorm because of its unpredictability. They have been reported to cause about 300 injuries every year, and that doesn’t even include the damage it can do to homes, like starting a house fire or felling trees.

Damage from hail. Due to its size (at least one inch or larger) and speed, hail can do damage to just about anything, particularly vehicles that are exposed, people or pets that are not under a sturdy shelter, and the sidings and roofs of houses. Statistically, Kenosha County doesn’t experience as much hail as the rest of the state, but the damage is still felt when it does happen.

Flash flooding. Flash flooding can occur at any time for a variety of reasons, including heavy rain, a backed-up storm drain or overflowing ditches on the roadside. These things can turn flooded roadways into a life-threatening scenario in a matter of minutes. Damage to vehicles is common if someone tries to cross a flooded road, but it’s also possible for a car to be taken away with the tide in a little as 12 inches of water.

While severe thunderstorm season is approaching, it’s time to prepare your business or home. But if these dangerous storms cause damage to your property, we will be there to help. Contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to restore your home back to pre-storm condition.

Protecting Your Kenosha Home From Heavy Rain Can Be As Easy As Taking These Simple Steps | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County

4/24/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help dealing with any damage caused by water, contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County today.

Protecting Your Kenosha Home From Heavy Rain Can Be As Easy As Taking These Simple Steps

Water damage is so common that one in every 50 American homeowners will file a claim in 2021.

If something unexpected happens and you realize that you need water damage restoration help, you won’t be alone. Depending on your social circle, more than one friend, acquaintance, family member or coworker might need to file a water damage claim, too.

Water damages the home in many ways. You probably know a few of them. Most homeowners have a few of the most common causes on their mental list. That includes problems like a flash flood or a burst pipe.

But heavy rains can be a significant cause of water damage. This is especially true if there are home maintenance issues that go unaddressed over time.

It’s not possible to prevent every type of water damage your home could suffer. But there is a lot you can do regarding maintaining your home to help ensure it’s not vulnerable to damage caused by heavy rains.

Getting Your Home Ready to Withstand Wet Weather

Our staff includes a dedicated team of water damage experts, so we have valuable insights into how you can protect your home from suffering water damage now and in the future. The good news is that basic home maintenance can help you stay safe from water damage.

Learn how your yard drains. Knowing how your yard drains is vital to protecting your home. If you notice that your yard is draining toward your home, then you might want to get in touch with a landscaping expert to look for ways to protect your yard.

Invest in native plant landscaping. Many people don’t realize that the right landscaping at your home can make a big difference when it comes to preventing water damage. Native plants, trees and bushes can be vital in protecting your home from water damage. Talk with landscaping experts in the area or visit a native plant sale for tips and ideas.

Explore sealing your roof. Experts estimate that almost 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles, which can be prevented with this step.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

You Can Make Your Home Safer When Spring Thunderstorms Hit | SERVPRO® North Kenosha County

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage from spring storms, contact SERVPRO of North Kenosha County.

You Can Make Your Home Safer When Spring Thunderstorms Hit 

Is your family ready for spring yet? If so, no one could blame you. Another cold and snowy Wisconsin winter has many of our friends and neighbors in Kenosha and the surrounding communities dealing with a serious case of spring fever.

Here’s some good news. It’s already March, so spring is getting closer and will be here before we know it. And now is a good time to plan for how you’ll spend warm and sunny Saturday afternoons.

If you haven’t thought about adding home maintenance to the list of activities, we’d like to ask you to reconsider. This is a great time to take steps to protect your home against the threat of spring thunderstorms.

We can’t stop a storm from hitting our neighborhood. But we can take steps to protect our homes from the damage they can cause. Here’s how you can do it.

Spring Projects for Your Family’s To-Do List

Make these projects one of your priorities this season:

Get your roof ready for stormy weather. Don’t let the first time you realize your shingles are loose or your roof is leaking be when it starts storming. You can take steps to prevent this by checking your roof on a sunny Saturday. Look for missing shingles and signs of leaks. Then you can repair them.

Be sure your gutters aren’t cluttered with winter debris. Clean gutters allow water around your home to flow the right way. When they’re full of trash, they can overflow and cause water damage.

Check your home and garage for overhanging limbs. Mature trees are beautiful, and many people enjoy having them in their yards. But they can cause damage if limbs are overhanging your home or garage during heavy winds. Cut them early.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Be Certain You Are Choosing the Right Storm Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

12/12/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of North Kenosha County to set up an appointment.

During any type of severe weather event, it can be frightening if you are in its path—and if you experience damage in the aftermath, it can be a compounded source of stress. Damages from storms have gotten more severe in recent years. In the event that you have damage, you will want to know exactly who to call in order to get it restored.

Picking the best restoration company for your needs is so important, though it can feel overwhelming. However, it is wise to make certain you are getting your money’s worth and are using a company you can depend on to be entrusted with your buildings and belongings.

Picking a Storm Restoration Company You Can Count On

Make sure they are reputable. If a company has a good reputation both locally and within the restoration industry, that is probably a good sign you will get good service. Many scammers surface following storm damage, which is why doing your research and ensuring the company you are choosing is legitimate is so important. We are proud of the reputation we have built over the years, both with local customers and on a national scale.

Determine their plan for spikes in demand. Because the damage caused by storms is generally widespread and sudden, companies without ample resources can often struggle to keep up with the influx in business. That is why we have a nation of SERVPRO® partners on our side—we can call for backup whenever it is needed so we can always guarantee exceptional service regardless of how widespread the damage is in the area.

Be certain you can get in touch with them when you need. It is never convenient to discover storm damage, but if it occurs after hours or on a holiday, it can be difficult to get the help you need. With us, we have a ²⁴⁄₇ emergency line, so you can call us no matter when damage is discovered and receive a quick response from our expert technicians.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Types of Damages Lightning Can Cause | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Storm and lighting damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your home, you need the company with experience

Types of Damages Lightning Can Cause | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

Because of the rain, winds and other aspects that surround thunderstorms, there are many ways in which they can cause damage. Lightning strikes, one of the most dangerous thunderstorm occurrences, can lead to fire outbreaks, electronic damage and even structural damage when they strike a building.

Because of the high temperatures and shock waves associated with lightning strikes, they can be highly dangerous if they are nearby.

What Causes Lightning to Form?

Every thunderstorm contains electricity, which is the powerful force behind thunder and lightning. Lightning bolts are a brief, visible discharge of this energy, either striking across the clouds or below the ground.

The Earth’s atmosphere is not an ideal conductor, so lightning attempts to reach the ground quickly once it leaves the clouds. This is why it will opt to strike objects as it heads toward the ground. If the object in question is a building, it travels through the water and electrical systems, which is part of why it is so dangerous.

What Damages Can Lightning Cause?

The way a lightning strike can damage a home and how to stay safe during a storm is important to know.

Fires can start. A bolt of lightning can be up to 500,000 degrees, meaning it can often start a fire on impact if it strikes the wood of a home. Additionally, lightning can damage electrical wiring and lead to fires that break out within the walls. If your home is struck, the fire department will be able to run tests to determine if you’re at risk for an electrical fire.

Electronics may be damaged. As lightning courses through a home’s wiring, it can transfer its charge into anything connected to an outlet. Because this can cause significant damage, routing electronics through a surge protector is a wise idea.

Shock waves can cause property damage. Lightning produces shock waves each time it strikes, which typically manifest as thunder. However, these shock waves are also present when lightning strikes the ground, causing windows to shatter and foundations to crack. It is important to inspect your home’s structure for faults if lightning has struck nearby.

If your home has been affected by storm damages or lightning-related fires, give us a call today! We are experts in damage cleanup and can restore your damage quickly.

Understanding Damage Done by Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

The cost of hail damage can reach $1 billion a year.

Understanding Damage Done by Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

Thunderstorms are not a rarity during the spring and summer—and storm damage is often the result.

Do you know the different types of damage that thunderstorms can cause?

The Storm

Each year in the United States, around 100,000 thunderstorms occur, but that’s overshadowed by the estimated 16 million thunderstorms each year worldwide. Of the United States’ storms, 10% are considered to be severe.

For a storm to develop, several components must be in play. There must be moisture and unstable air, along with a lifting mechanism. This lift can be caused by hilly or mountainous terrain or warm/cold or wet/dry air bumping together, causing a rising motion.

Thunderstorms have three phases—the developing stage, the mature stage and the dissipating stage. During the mature stage, hail, heavy rain, frequent lightning, strong winds and tornadoes can occur.

The Damage

Thunderstorms can damage your home and property in many ways. But one of the greatest risks is the chance of flying debris due to extremely high winds.

Wind speeds can gust in a severe thunderstorm over 57.5 mph, which is enough to cause damage to your property.

Any item that is loose in your yard, even those that seem harmless, can turn into dangerous projectiles. You should take care to make sure tree branches, gravel, mailboxes, fencing, lawn furniture, potted plants and garbage are secured prior to any storm activity in your area.

The following damage can also be produced during a thunderstorm in addition to wind damage:

Lightning damage. If lightning strikes a home or building, that electricity can pass through the wiring of the home. This could severely damage any electrical appliances that are plugged into an outlet and also increases the risk of fire.

Tornado damage. The higher on the Fujita Scale, the more damage a tornado can do. With wind speeds that can sometimes reach 200 mph or more, the damage done by them is extreme and occurs fast.

Hail damage. Small but mighty, hail can wreak havoc on crops, homes and vehicles alike. Did you know that according to NOAA, the cost of hail damage can reach $1 billion a year?

Flood damage. From houses to trees, flooding can do much damage when the conditions are right. Heavy rain can bring about flash flood conditions quickly.

If a thunderstorm has resulted in damage to your home or business, know that the team at SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County is available ²⁴⁄₇ to help with cleanup and restoration.

What to Do Before a Flood

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

What to Do Before a Flood

What to Do Before a Flood | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County 

It is everyone’s wish that they will be able to live their lives without worrying about flooding, but even if your home is not located on a historically flood-prone area that may not be the case.

Natural disasters involve floods around 90% of the time, so it is essential for homeowners be aware.

Your To-do List Before a Flood

While disaster-related floods cannot be prevented, there are steps homeowners can take to limit the damage a flood could cause:

Know your risk. Understanding your risks and precautionary measures is essential for staying safe. Get in contact with your local emergency management office branch and utilize the Flood Map Tool that FEMA provides to gain vital information about your local area’s risks.

Turn off electricity. Even if you feel it’s unlikely that the waters would reach electrical appliances or outlets, it is best to cut electricity to any rooms that might be affected in order to prevent current transfer and shock.

Elevate valuables. Items that cannot be or are difficult to replace, such as passports, family photos or household documents, should be elevated or kept off site.

Discuss emergency procedures. Ensure your entire household is aware of what to do should a flood become a possibility, including evacuation procedures and the location of emergency supplies.

Elevate chemicals to prevent spills. Elevate things such as oil, paint and cleaning supplies to prevent dangerous spills into the floodwater.

Secure propane and fuel tanks. If a fuel tank tips over due to a flood, it can lead to a dangerous spill or even a fire. Remove fuel tanks from the property or anchor them securely.

Disasters are not preventable, but damages to your home can be with certain precautions. By planning ahead, you can keep your home and your family safe from floods and water damage.

If you’ve experienced water damage due to a flood or other causes, SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is Here to Help®. Our technicians are fully trained in water remediation, and our ²⁴⁄₇ Emergency Line means we’ll be there for you when you call.

Tips for Keeping Your Family Safe During a Tornado | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for Keeping Your Family Safe During a Tornado

Tips for Keeping Your Family Safe During a Tornado | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

Springtime brings balmy weather that can sometimes be unpredictable. So it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the chance of severe thunderstorms that lead to the perfect conditions for a tornado.

April and May are the months of spring that, traditionally, have the highest occurrences of tornadoes at 30% and 24%, respectively. This means we are currently right in the midst of tornado season throughout the United States.

Read on as we share some tips and information on tornadoes that can help keep your family prepared for the worst possible scenario.

The Right Conditions for a Tornado

Roughly 1,200 tornadoes occur in the United States every year, and they are a direct result of severe thunderstorms known as “supercells.”

A tornado comes into being when changes in wind speed and direction create a horizontal spinning effect within a storm cell. This is then tipped vertical by rising air moving up through the thunderclouds.

You will usually not see the tornado’s signature funnel cloud at first because it is transparent, but it becomes more visible when water droplets from the storm’s moist air condense or when dust and debris are picked up.

A typical tornado can grow to be 660 feet wide and will move at 10 to 20 miles per hour, although larger and faster tornadoes have been observed. Hail and intense winds of more than 200 mph can accompany tornadoes.

Typically, tornadoes occur in the spring and summertime during the late in the afternoon, but that isn’t the only time. So it is important to remember that they can occur anytime and anywhere.

What to Do in Tornado Weather

Make it a point to understand the difference between tornado watches and tornado warnings. Tornado watches are issued when the conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while tornado warnings are issued when a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.

If a warning has been issued for your area, it is vital to take action to find safe shelter, especially if you are in the path of the tornado. Shelter options include:

• Underground options like a basement or storm shelter.
• The lowest part of your home, in an area that is away from outside walls, doors and windows. Interior closets and bathrooms can be ideal options.
• If you are outside, try to get to a sturdy building. Mobile homes and trailers are not a safe option.
• If on the road and no building access is available, do not get under an overpass or bridge. Instead, find a low, flat location and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

You should make sure that you have flashlights, a battery-powered weather radio and extra batteries in your selected tornado shelter at home. When you are taking shelter in your home, furniture items like couch cushions, mattresses or blankets can be used to protect your head and neck.

If you find yourself caught in a tornado out on the road, DO NOT try to outrun it.

Tornadoes can be devastating and life-threatening in the areas they touch down. While meteorologists and weather services can provide some advanced warning to potential threats, tornadoes can still occur with little to no warning at all.

If your home or business has been damaged by a tornado, know that SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is ready and waiting to jump into action and get cleanup and restoration of your property underway.

How to Prepare for Unpredictable Spring Weather | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for Unpredictable Spring Weather

How to Prepare for Unpredictable Spring Weather | SERVPRO of North Kenosha County - SERVPRO OF NORTH KENOSHA COUNTY Blog

Welcome to long-awaited spring! Now we can enjoy spring-like weather…and all that Mother Nature has in store for us during this season.

Spring and Increased Severe Weather Threats

We can now enjoy longer days and more sunshine with the arrival of spring, but unfortunately, spring also brings with it the threat of severe weather throughout the country. You never know what kind of weather a spring day is going to bring, which means the weather may change at moment’s notice.

Spring brings unstable temperatures, which cause changes in the weather, going from warm to cold even in the same day. Those temperature changes can result in extreme weather changes as well.

Thunderstorms become more prevalent throughout the spring and are the main cause of severe weather. A thunderstorm can occur whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, which is most common in the spring and summer.

Severe thunderstorms were the most common cause of natural catastrophe losses in the U.S. for 2017 and produced some of the costliest results. Out of 50 events, there were 85 fatalities and an estimated total of $25.4 billion in overall losses.

With these storms comes 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.

Preparing for Spring Weather

Even though we may not be able to predict the weather with 100% accuracy, forecasters do have the technology at their disposal to at least warn us of severe weather that could occur. 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:

1. Clear out your home’s gutters, drains and downspouts.
2. Trim trees of precarious limbs or branches that could break off in a storm.
3. 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 North Kenosha County to get the cleanup and restoration process started fast.

Creating a Severe Weather Plan With Your Family | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

Having an emergency plan in place can give you valuable time to act in sever weather situations. #preparedness #emergency #safety

Creating a Severe Weather Plan With Your Family | SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County

How do you ensure the preparedness of your family before an unexpected severe storm situation when we are caught off-guard by Mother Nature?

Fortunately, there are actions you can take and safety tips to follow that will give you the peace of mind you deserve in various severe weather occurrences.

The best way to win at the severe weather game is to compile a family emergency plan and have it available at all times.

If your family does have an emergency plan in place, be sure that it is often practiced and reviewed prior to each weather season so everyone, both young and old, knows exactly what to do.

If you’ve not yet created your family emergency plan, here are some things to think about and take into consideration when creating a plan:

1. How will emergency alerts and warnings be received?

Not only does today’s technology include radio and television broadcasts that alert us as to emergency situations, but thanks to smartphone technology, it is easy to quickly receive emergency alerts and warnings by way of Google or a weather app, giving you valuable time to act in severe weather situations.

2. What type of storm shelter do you have?

A storm shelter should, ideally, be in the lowest part of your home, like a basement, especially if you live in an area where tornadoes are common. But if there is no basement available you’ll want to use an interior room that is away from windows and doors. Check out ready.gov for other situations requiring storm shelters besides tornadoes.

3. What is our evacuation route?

When planning for evacuation, you should always have routes mapped out that can serve for evacuation before situations like hurricanes, floods and fires force you from your home in a hurry. It’s wise to have multiple routes just in case one is impassable, and don’t forget to check where you can stay with your pets along the way if you have furry family members also evacuating with you.

4. How will the family stay in touch?

Staying in touch with your family members during an emergency is important. It’s normal to expect to rely on cell phones for this purpose, but in some circumstances, that just isn’t feasible.

Cell phone towers are often damaged during severe weather, phones could be lost or left behind, and how will batteries be charged on your phones if there is no power? Your family must have an emergency communication plan in place for peace of mind and a safe meeting place for your family to gather in the event you are separated during an emergency.

If a storm does cause damage to your home or business, don’t hesitate to call your friends at SERVPRO® of North Kenosha County to get the cleanup and restoration process started.

Hurricane Harvey Storm Travel

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

One of many Houston neighborhoods where all of the houses were affected.

In September of 2017 our franchise traveled to Houston to help with the Hurricane Harvey damage. We sent 3 vans full of equipment, a full crew of production technicians, 2 crew chiefs and our production manager. I also joined the team there to sign new customers and continue to sell jobs after all the hard work began.

In total we spent a month there and worked on 19 houses and 1 commercial job. Storm Team Wilson, who managed everything in Houston, was great to work with. From job assignment to collecting payment everything was very organized and ran smoothly.

Entire neighborhoods were affected by the hurricane and the water level inside the homes was pretty overwhelming. Due to the humid climate and the fact that the water sat in some of the homes for 2+ weeks the mold growth was extensive, but we were able to get the homes dried out properly and the demo completed.    

When Storms or Floods hit Kenosha, SERVPRO is ready!

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in North Kenosha County.

SERVPRO of North Kenosha County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Kenosha, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams http://www.SERVPROnorthkenoshacounty.com/commercial-storm-cleanup that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at 262-764-7231

When Storms or Floods hit SERVPRO of North Kenosha County is ready!

3/21/2017 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in North Kenosha County.

SERVPRO of North Kenosha County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Kenosha County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 262-764-7231