In May, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted that 2024 would see a higher-than-average Atlantic hurricane season, estimating up to 25 named storms and 13 hurricanes. While you may not think Ohio is at risk during hurricane season, these storms can still have lasting impacts on northern and inland states. As the peak of hurricane season approaches, preparing your home against severe weather is critical.
History and Impact of Hurricanes in the United States
The official hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th, but most storms and hurricanes occur from mid-August to mid-October. And while some are saying the 2024 hurricane season is lower than expected, others are still wary of what the peak and tail-end of the season may bring.
Historically, people who live in coastal areas in the southeastern United States, primarily along the Gulf of Mexico, are most at risk for damage from hurricanes. Florida has seen the most hurricanes hit land, with Texas and Louisiana following. Hurricanes and related storms have cost the nation around $2.6 trillion since 1980, and they have caused the most deaths and destruction of all recorded weather disasters in the United States.
How Hurricane Season Affects Homes in Ohio
Living inland or in the northern United States doesn’t mean you’re safe from the impact of hurricanes. Many tropical storms travel north and wreak havoc on these “less risky” states in the form of severe storms, heavy rain, and high winds.
Just take Hurricane Ike as an example. In September 2008, Ike broke land in Texas, creating chaos across the state. It eventually moved north and left damage and destruction in its path, especially in Ohio. The state saw gusts of wind upwards of 75 mph, millions of people without power for days, over $1 billion in damages, and extreme flash flooding. Other notable storms that affected Ohio include Hurricane Barry (2019), Hurricane Delta (2020), and Hurricane Ida (2021).
With any severe weather, you may expect some storm damage. In Ohio and other northern states, hurricanes are most likely to have the following impacts:
- Flash floods
- High winds and flying debris
- Heavy rain
- Prolonged power outages
- Death and other injuries
7 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Storm Season
Knowing the different ways hurricanes can impact your home and safety is just the first step in preparing for storm season. Follow these seven tips to get your home ready for the months ahead.
Trim or Remove Trees
High winds brought on by severe weather can be a danger to your home, especially if the trees are in close proximity. Make sure to trim any dead or loose branches, and focus on removing branches from the interior of the tree’s canopy to allow wind to flow through more easily.
If you are considering removal, look for any trees close to your home that are diseased or appear unstable.
Repair Loose Shingles and Siding
Ensuring your home can stand up to strong winds involves making sure your roof and siding are strong and stable. You should always check your roof and siding before any stormy season and quickly repair any loose shingles or siding.
Invest in Alternate Power Sources
Severe storms in Ohio have historically led to prolonged power outages. If you were impacted by the storms in early August this year, you know what we’re talking about. It was the worst power outage we’ve experienced in Cleveland in 30 years and left 429,000 with no power. You’re not alone, many Ohioans are looking to other sources of power now. If you’re able, investing in an alternate power source like a generator can be a lifesaver in these situations. If you can’t afford a generator, having a portable power bank and battery-operated flashlights is another good option.
Take Care of Your Sump Pump
Sump pumps are essential to preventing flooding or water damage in your basement and home. They are crucial during severe storms with heavy rain and flash flooding. You should regularly check on your sump pump to ensure it’s in proper working condition for a storm.
Clean the Gutters
Clearing debris from your gutters is important to reducing the risk of water damage to your home or roof. It ensures water flows away from your home rather than seeping into it. You should also make sure your home has a clear path for water to flow away from it.
Check Windows and Doors
Heavy rains mixed with high winds can cause damage to windows and doors. These conditions can also lead to water seeping through any openings—such as those that might exist due to improperly installed windows or doors. Take a moment to ensure your windows and doors are securely installed, and take measures to seal them if you find any openings.
Secure and Reinforce Outdoor Areas
Before any large storm, it helps to observe the outdoor area of your home and identify any loose objects that may turn into damaging debris. Things like patio furniture, plant pots, and tools should be removed from outside and stored in a safe place. You should also check that any fencing, porches, garages, and even trampolines are secure.
Being Prepared for the Worst – Hoping for the Best
Storms are inevitable and being prepared for them can be life saving. The good news is that even if your home falls victim to one of these storms, you can rest assured knowing that Cleveland Water and Fire Restoration can help get your home back to normal. Through our process, we work with your insurance, remediate all damage, and will even help with reconstruction so your home is better off than it was before the storm!
