A Look at What Dangers Thunderstorms Can Cause | SERVPRO® of Eastern Rockland County

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Eastern Rockland County if you experience any damage.

The warmth of the spring and summer is a welcome change from the chill of winter, but this warm weather also means that thunderstorms are given ample opportunity to develop.

Thunderstorms become a regular occurrence when it is hot outside, which means that many people do not take them seriously when they become a possibility. Every thunderstorm has the potential to cause serious harm to those in its path and should be regarded with caution.

All thunderstorms contain thunder and lightning every time, in addition to heavy rain and wind. If a thunderstorm is classified as severe by weather authorities, that means hail is over an inch in diameter and winds are reaching speeds of 58 miles per hour. All of these conditions can cause serious injury and property harm to those impacted by the storm.

How Thunderstorms Can Be So Destructive

Damage and injury from lightning strikes. If there is thunder, lightning will always be present too—in fact, thunderclaps are actually caused by lightning strikes. Over 300 injuries annually are attributed to lightning strikes, in addition to the major property damage lightning can cause due to fires and falling trees.

Property damage due to hail. Hail is not present during every thunderstorm, but it is always possible and can be quite dangerous. Hail falls faster the larger it is, and can lead to injury, car dents and household damage. If hail impacts a home’s roof or siding, it can provide a way for water to work into the home and cause major water damage if left untreated over time.

Harm from flash flooding. Flash flooding is an extremely dangerous force because of how suddenly it can come about and the fact that it can occur nearly anywhere. During periods of heavy rain, storm drains can become overwhelmed and begin to overflow, causing flash flooding conditions that can be deadly. Just a few inches of water can knock an adult off their feet or move a car, so never come into contact with floodwater if it can be avoided.

Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us ²⁴⁄₇ for more information about our storm restoration practices.