Safeguard Your Home Before Winds Blow Through Milwaukee | SERVPRO of Cudahy/St. Francis
6/5/2023 (Permalink)
On a sweltering day, a gentle gust of wind can feel like a refreshing present from Mother Nature. Though we cannot see the wind, it is a constant presence that we can always rely on—even when it may not be to our liking.
However, when the wind picks up and turns into a strong gale, it can wreak havoc and leave behind a trail of devastation, reducing homes to rubble. While high winds are often associated with violent storms, they can occur even on sunny days.
Educate yourself about the impact of powerful winds and how they can harm your property, and take necessary precautions to safeguard your loved ones and your dwelling.
<h3different-kinds-of-wind">The Different Kinds of Wind
Over half of all destructive wind events are attributed to thunderstorms, making them a threat that should not be taken lightly. In fact, thunderstorm winds are responsible for more damage than tornadoes.
Thunderstorms can produce winds that reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, which can easily scatter debris across yards and cause significant damage to structures.
One type of thunderstorm wind is known as straight-line wind, which can be incredibly powerful, reaching speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Unlike tornadoes, straight-line winds are not associated with rotation and can cause damage even in areas without any rainfall.
Tornadoes, on the other hand, are known for their destructive capabilities due to the combination of different types of winds they produce. Tornadoes aren’t as prevalent in Milwaukee, but they can certainly do damage on the rare occasions when they do strike. High winds can occur anywhere, thus it doesn’t require a tornado to cause terrible damage in our area!
<h3damage-and-prevention">Wind Damage and Prevention
Strong winds can cause extensive damage to properties, including downed trees, debris scattered around and disrupted power lines. Even a mobile home that is anchored down can experience severe damage when winds exceed 80 miles per hour.
Understanding weather alerts and securing loose outdoor objects are two vital ways to prepare for high winds and minimize potential damage to your property and safety.
Prune your trees regularly, and if you have tall trees on your property, hire a professional to maintain them every five to 10 years. Keep your yard free of loose branches and other items that could be picked up by the wind and cause damage.
Search around your property after the wind has calmed down to assess any damage that might have occurred. Be sure to examine your roof for any damages, such as misplaced shingles, and replace them immediately to prevent water seepage. Call SERVPRO to repair your wind damage, and we’ll restore your home in no time.
Has your home been damaged by wind? Call us and get things cleaned up fast.