Prepare Your Home And Business For Severe Wind Storms Like A Derecho

In the heart of the Midwest, where the wind whispers through the cornfields and the skies can turn tumultuous in an instant, preparing for windstorms isn’t just a precaution—it’s a necessity. Most of us remember the last infamous Derecho storm that swept through Iowa in 2020 and the extensive amount of damage it left in its path. We want to help property owners be better prepared for future formidable wind events.

The Calm Before the Storm

Imagine a serene summer day in Iowa, where the sun paints golden hues across the landscape, and the air is filled with the buzz of cicadas. Ms. Anderson, a diligent property owner in a quaint town, goes about her daily routines, tending to her garden and enjoying the peace of rural life.

Little does she know, nature is brewing a powerful force just beyond the horizon—a Derecho storm, a beast of relentless winds and destructive power, is silently gathering strength.

The Fury Unleashed: The Derecho Strikes

In a sudden turn of events, the tranquil afternoon transforms into chaos as The Derecho begins to blow through Iowa with unbridled fury. Winds roar like a freight train, trees bend and snap, debris flies through the air like missiles, and a once peaceful town is plunged into darkness as power lines begin to fall to the relentless gust of wind continue to pick up speed.

Ms. Anderson’s property, like many others, bared the brunt of the storm. Shingles torn from the roof, windows shatter under the pressure, and her beloved garden now a tangle of broken branches and uprooted plants.

The Aftermath: Lessons Learned

As the storm subsides and the sun timidly peeks through the clouds once more, Ms. Anderson reflects on the harrowing experience and vows to be better prepared for future windstorms, especially the magnitude of a Derecho.

Here are key lessons she learns and actions she will be taking to prepare for the future:

• Roof Reinforcement: Anderson realized the importance of reinforcing her roof to withstand high winds. She schedules a professional evaluation to assess her roof’s integrity and address weak areas with a local reliable contractor.
• Storm Shutters: Boarding up windows or installing storm shutters can prevent glass breakage and protect the interior of the home during intense windstorms.
• Outdoor Items: Anchoring or putting away outdoor furniture, grills, and garden decor can prevent them from becoming hazardous projectiles in strong winds.
• Emergency Kit: Anderson will now have a comprehensive emergency kit assembled that contains essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies.
• Backup Power: Investing in a generator or alternative power source ensures that essential appliances and devices can still function during power outages.
• Trimming Trees: Regular tree trimming and removal of dead branches reduce the risk of trees falling on the property or power lines during storms.
• Stay Informed: Anderson signed up for weather alerts and now stays updated on local forecasts to be prepared well in advance of any impending storms.
• Establish Relationship With A Contractor Now Ms. Anderson has yearly evaluations of her property and has her home being monitored by a reputable contractor. They keep comprehensive documentation of her home incase of any future severe weather events.

Build Resilience

Windstorms, especially Derechos, can wreak havoc on properties and communities. However, through proactive preparation and learning from past experiences, property owners like Ms. Anderson can build resilience and protect their homes and loved ones from nature’s fury.

By taking simple yet effective measures and staying vigilant, we can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.