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.