When a hurricane or tropical storm strikes, storm surges accompanying it may be the most damaging event when it comes to property loss. The term refers to a combination of wind and surging floodwater that sweeps across a coastland area, usually at the height of a storm. Typically, a surge comes ashore at the same speed as the storm, usually about 10 to 15 mph. A cubic yard of sea water weighs over 1,700 pounds, so water that is only a foot or two deep moving at that speed can cause substantial structural damage when combined with high winds. Here are some ways to protect your home and possessions from the wind and water damage associated with storm surges:
- Check your risk. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides online flood zone maps to rate your local risk of a storm surge.
- Protect windows and doors. Get removable storm shutters and install the attachments now so they can be mounted quickly when a storm threatens. Surge-proof exterior doors and door mountings that resist the force of moving water are also worthwhile.
- Remove flying objects. The landscape immediately surrounding the house should be kept clear of limbs, weak trees, outdoor furniture, storage sheds and other objects that may dislodge in a storm surge and batter the house, increasing damage.
- Reinforce the roof. Hurricane-force wind gets under the roof and lifts it up off the walls, then takes the roof away. Hurricane tie-down straps that secure the roof to the wall structure oppose the force of upward lift and keep the roof on the house.
- Get a storm-proof garage door. Standard non-reinforced garage doors are a major weak spot that will give way and allow high wind and surging water into your house. Storm-proof doors have extra bracing for greater strength.
- Protect the crawl space and basement. Install a sump pump with battery backup to remove inundating storm water.
For more advice about protection before and after storm surges, contact the water damage pros at Rytech, Inc.
