Protecting Yourself From Damaging Winds During Fast-Moving Storms

Henrik Larsen

4 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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Understanding the Dangers of High Winds

Wind Speed and Damage

The intensity of damaging winds directly correlates with the type of storm and its wind speed. Different wind speeds cause varying levels of damage:

• 39-73 mph (63-117 km/h): Broken tree branches, significant damage to roofs and siding, power outages widespread.
• 74-95 mph (119-153 km/h): Complete roof failure, substantial structural damage to buildings, mobile homes destroyed.
• 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h): Widespread devastation, even well-constructed buildings are severely damaged, trees uprooted.
• Above 111 mph (179 km/h): Catastrophic damage, complete destruction of structures, debris becomes deadly projectiles.

Statistics show that wind-related injuries and fatalities are significant during severe weather. Understanding these risks is the first step in effective storm preparation.

Identifying High-Risk Areas

Certain geographical locations are more vulnerable to damaging winds:

• Coastal regions: Directly exposed to hurricane-force winds and storm surges.
• Plains: Flat terrain allows wind to accelerate unimpeded, leading to increased wind speeds.
• Areas with sparse tree cover: Lack of natural windbreaks exacerbates the impact of high winds.

Factors like elevation and proximity to large bodies of water can also increase vulnerability to damaging winds. Knowing your risk level allows for better preparedness.

Preparing Your Home for Damaging Winds

Securing Your Property

Before a storm hits, take proactive steps to secure your home:

• Bring in loose objects: Move outdoor furniture, garbage cans, and other loose items inside to prevent them from becoming airborne projectiles.
• Trim trees and shrubs: Remove any branches that could fall and damage your house or power lines.
• Board up windows: Protect windows from shattering by covering them with plywood or storm shutters.
• Reinforce garage doors: Garage doors are often weak points in a home's structure. Reinforce them or close them securely.

Securing your outdoor items is crucial in mitigating potential wind damage.

Creating a Safe Room

Identify or create a safe room within your house, preferably a central, interior room without windows:

• Reinforce the room: If necessary, reinforce the walls and door of the room to make it as structurally sound as possible.
• Stock it with emergency supplies: Include water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio.

Basements or interior hallways can serve as alternative safe locations if a dedicated safe room isn't feasible.

Staying Safe During Fast-Moving Storms

Monitoring Weather Reports

Stay updated on weather alerts and forecasts from reputable sources:

• National Weather Service (NWS): The primary source for accurate weather information.
• Local news: Local news channels often provide up-to-date storm coverage and warnings.

Understand the difference between a watch (conditions are favorable for severe weather) and a warning (severe weather is imminent).

Evacuation Procedures

Evacuate immediately if instructed by authorities:

• Plan an evacuation route: Identify several possible routes to your designated shelter or safe location.
• Have a designated meeting place: Ensure family members know where to meet if separated during the evacuation.
• Secure your home: Take steps to protect your property before leaving.

If evacuation is impossible, shelter in place in your designated safe room.

What to Do During the Storm

During the storm's peak:

• Stay away from windows: Avoid windows completely to minimize the risk of injury from flying debris.
• Move to your safe room: Take shelter in your pre-designated safe room.
• Stay informed: Continue monitoring weather reports for updates.
• Avoid using electronics: Unless absolutely necessary, avoid using electronics due to potential power surges.

Remaining calm and following safety procedures is crucial during high wind events.

Post-Storm Safety and Recovery

Assessing Damage Safely

After the storm, check for damage cautiously:

• Be aware of downed power lines: Never approach downed power lines; assume they are live and dangerous.
• Check for structural damage: Assess the condition of your home, looking for cracks, damage to the roof, or other structural problems.
• Report damage to local authorities: Report any significant damage to your local authorities to help facilitate recovery efforts.

Your safety is paramount when assessing post-storm damage.

Dealing with Damage and Insurance

Dealing with property damage and insurance claims:

• Document the damage: Take photos and videos of all damage to your property.
• Contact your insurance provider: Report your damage to your insurance company as soon as possible.
• Seek professional help for repairs: Hire qualified contractors to assess and repair any significant damage.

Conclusion

Protecting yourself from damaging winds during fast-moving storms requires proactive preparation, adherence to safety procedures during the storm, and careful assessment of damage afterward. By understanding the dangers of high winds, securing your property, monitoring weather reports, and following evacuation procedures when necessary, you significantly increase your chances of surviving and minimizing damage. Learn more about protecting yourself from damaging winds and building a resilient safety plan today!