Beware of Florida Thunderstorms

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let storms sweep you into despair, contact us to help restore your property today!

Florida leads the nation in lightning strikes annually and the frequency that thunderstorms occur during the warmer months of the year, it is easy to discount them as just another weather event that can be disregarded. This is quite dangerous, however, as every thunderstorm poses the potential for serious threats due to high winds, possible flooding, and more.

Any time a thunderstorm is in the forecast, it is important to take it seriously

All storms must contain thunder and lightning to be classified as thunderstorms, and every thunderstorm will always contain both. A thunderstorm can evolve into a severe thunderstorm if it becomes volatile enough to produce winds greater than 58 miles per hour. As the name implies, severe thunderstorms are even more dangerous.

Damage and injury from lightning strikes

Because every thunderstorm contains lightning, the damage that a lightning strike can cause is a threat every single time a thunderstorm impacts the area. Over 300 injuries occur every single year as a result of lightning striking people, and it can also cause damage due to fallen trees or building fires as well. It is vital to remember that you do not have to see lightning for it to be a threat.

Harm from flash flooding

Though there are many misconceptions about where flooding can occur, it is really best to assume that it could happen anywhere, as flash flooding often does. Flash flooding can occur due to backed-up ditches, overwhelmed drains and overfull retention ponds that can quickly lead to hazards. It only takes a few inches of water to carry cars away or knock an adult off their feet, making driving or crossing floodwaters a major hazard.

If you have a tree fall on your roof, a lightening bolt compromises your home, or a flood wash in, contact SERVPRO of Gainesville West/Alachua County West for immediate assistance in making your disaster, "Like it never even happened."