The groundhog has spoken and winter is on its way out. However, what he didn’t bother telling us is that the severe weather often associated with the Gulf Coast states is starting much earlier than is normal. That’s why we’re sharing some safety tips for severe weather.
The groundhog has spoken and winter is on its way out. However, what he didn’t bother telling us is that the severe weather often associated with the Gulf Coast states is starting much earlier than is normal. That’s why we’re sharing some safety tips for severe weather.
The first things we think of when we here the term “severe weather” are tornadoes. And with good cause; Texas and the southern states have already been slammed with a number of these violent storms this year. There are also other dangerous and potentially destructive storms about which to be concerned, though. Hail storms, windstorms and flood-causing torrential downpours rank right up there, too.
Safety Tips for Tornadoes
Depending on the construction of your home, a basement is the safest place to be in the middle of a tornado. However, many of us don’t have such a safe place. The next best plan is to stay away from windows as the pressures from the tornado will likely shatter the glass, creating dangerous debris. Grab pillows or couch cushions to use as shields from airborne debris and get to the innermost room of your home as quickly as possible. This is often a closet, but in many cases is a windowless bathroom. In my apartment, the innermost place of safety is the shower in my windowless master bathroom.
Safety Tips for Hailstorms
Hailstorms can do amazing amounts of damage, especially to the exteriors and roofs of homes. According to San Antonio resident Sonja Saucedo, “It [hail] does a lot of damage to the roofs, and to the cars. That’s the one I worry about.”
In the event of a hailstorm, such as those experienced on Tuesday, bring all breakables (lawn decorations, glass-topped patio/deck tables, etc.) inside. If you have a carport, garage or other covered area, get your vehicles there as soon as possible.
Safety Tips for Windstorms
Windstorms don’t necessarily mean tornadoes. However, high winds can certainly cause tremendous personal and property damage. Flying debris can cause serious personal injuries and high winds can severely damage homes, especially roofs, as well as vehicles. One good safety measure is to cut back any trees growing near your home, especially if they aren’t deeply rooted. Another is to avoid parking near trees if powerful windstorms are coming. Additionally, bring in patio/deck furniture, trash/recycling containers and anything else you don’t want to see blown away.
Safety Tips for Floods
The torrential rains currently hitting the South can easily produce flooding, whether predictable or the more dangerous flash-flooding. If you’ve lived in your neighborhood for a while, you likely know what areas to avoid when traveling during heavy rains. It’s wise to continue to avoid these areas whenever possible during inclement weather.
San Antonio resident Cathy Serafin, referring to just such an area, said, “There’re so many cars that get stuck underneath there every single time it rains. It doesn’t even have to be a flood, just heavy rain will be enough to flood the whole area here.”
A popular saying in Texas is, “Turn around, don’t drown!” It’s not just a catchy public service announcement. Flood waters can be much deeper than expected, even on roadways, and the currents involved can be quite powerful. You should develop an evacuation plan if you live in a flood zone, especially some of the flash flooding areas that are legendary in South Texas.
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