Protecting Yourself From High Winds During Fast-Moving Storms

Henrik Larsen

4 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

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Understanding the Dangers of High Winds

High winds pose a significant threat during fast-moving storms. The sheer power of these winds can have catastrophic consequences, leading to a range of devastating effects. Understanding these dangers is the first step in effective storm preparedness.

Types of Fast-Moving Storms

Several types of fast-moving storms generate dangerously high winds:

• Hurricanes: These powerful tropical cyclones produce sustained winds exceeding 74 mph (119 km/h), capable of causing catastrophic damage to buildings and infrastructure. Wind speeds can reach well over 150 mph (240 km/h) in the strongest hurricanes. [Link to National Hurricane Center]
• Tornadoes: These violently rotating columns of air can have wind speeds exceeding 300 mph (480 km/h), making them one of the most dangerous weather phenomena. Their unpredictable nature and intense winds make them a particularly significant threat. [Link to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)]
• Derechos: These widespread, long-lived wind storms can produce damaging winds over hundreds of miles, lasting for hours. Wind speeds in derechos can exceed 75 mph (120 km/h), causing significant damage similar to tornadoes but over a much broader area. [Link to NOAA]
• Severe Thunderstorms: While not all thunderstorms produce high winds, severe thunderstorms can generate damaging gusts exceeding 58 mph (93 km/h) and even spawn tornadoes. These storms often bring heavy rain, hail, and lightning, adding to the overall danger. [Link to NOAA]

Identifying High-Wind Warnings

Knowing the difference between a watch and a warning is critical:

• Watch: A watch means conditions are favorable for high winds to develop. Stay informed and be prepared to take action.
• Warning: A warning means high winds are imminent or already occurring in your area. Take immediate action to protect yourself and your property.

Reliable sources for weather information include:

• The National Weather Service (NWS)
• Your local news stations
• Reputable weather apps (check for accuracy and reliability)

Preparing Your Home for High Winds

Preparing your home before a storm hits is vital in mitigating wind damage and ensuring your safety.

Securing Your Property

• Secure all loose objects that could become airborne projectiles: outdoor furniture, garbage cans, debris, potted plants, and holiday decorations.
• Trim trees and shrubs: Overgrown trees and branches can easily be snapped by strong winds, causing damage to your home or power lines.
• Board up windows: Protect your windows from shattering by boarding them up or applying storm shutters.
• Reinforce garage doors: Garage doors are often vulnerable to high winds. Reinforce them with bracing or straps.
• Bring in anything that could become airborne: This includes bicycles, grills, and other lightweight items.

Creating a Safe Room

Designate a safe room within your home, ideally an interior room or basement, away from windows and exterior walls. This room should:

• Be sturdy and well-constructed.
• Contain emergency supplies (water, food, first-aid kit, flashlight, batteries).
• Have a way to communicate with the outside world (weather radio, cell phone).

Protecting Your Essential Items

Protect important documents, electronics, and irreplaceable items:

• Back up important data regularly to the cloud or external hard drives.
• Store important documents (birth certificates, insurance policies) in waterproof containers.
• Consider a home safe for valuable jewelry, documents, and other irreplaceable items.

Personal Safety During High Winds

Staying safe during high winds requires continuous vigilance and a well-defined plan.

Staying Informed

Continuously monitor weather updates from multiple sources:

• National Weather Service alerts
• Local news broadcasts
• Weather radio
• Reliable weather apps

Sign up for emergency alerts on your mobile device.

Evacuation Procedures

Develop and practice an evacuation plan before a storm hits:

• Know your designated evacuation routes.
• Have a designated meeting place outside your home.
• Pack an emergency go-bag with essential supplies (water, food, medications, important documents).
• Understand your community's evacuation procedures.

Seeking Shelter

If a high-wind warning is issued, seek immediate shelter:

• Indoors: Go to your designated safe room. Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
• Outdoors: If caught outdoors, seek shelter in a sturdy building or a low-lying area. If a tornado warning is issued, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area, covering your head. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges or overpasses.

Conclusion

Protecting yourself from high winds during fast-moving storms requires proactive preparation and a well-informed approach. By following these safety tips and creating a comprehensive plan, you can significantly reduce your risk. Remember, understanding the dangers of high winds, preparing your home, and staying informed are key to ensuring your safety. Don't wait until the next storm – start preparing for high winds today!