Yes, Toto, this IS Indiana and Kentucky, but the weather in our area can be rather unpredictable and we like to be prepared for anything. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes can hit here at any time of the year. The month of May has historically produced the most tornadoes in Indiana on average, with June coming in second and April & July coming in third.
Aside from tornadoes, though, our area is also prone to severe thunderstorms that can produce straight-line winds and hail, causing quite a bit of damage. For anyone not sheltered in place, these storms can also cause injury or death from fallen trees and/or debris flying through the air.
Watch Or a Warning – Know the Difference?
Make sure you know the difference between a “watch” and a “warning.” A several thunderstorm or tornado watch is usually issued first. When storms start to formulate and head our way, a warning will be issued.
A “watch” means that conditions will be favorable for threatening weather. This just tells you that you’ll want to have your plan ready should it need to be executed.
A “warning,” however, means it’s time to execute the plan. This is when you’ll likely hear the storm sirens sounding. Severe weather is imminent and the time to act is now. Don’t wait until a warning is issued to come up with a plan.
How To Prepare
Once you understand what to watch for and where to watch for it, the next step is to make a plan for when the weather does hit.
- Stay informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and updates from reliable sources, preferably from our local channels.
- Make a plan: Develop an emergency plan with your family or household members. Decide on a meeting place and designate roles and responsibilities. The meeting place needs to be in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of your house without windows. The idea is to put as many walls between you and the outside as possible.
- Make sure you have a plan for your pets as well.
- Build an emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as bottled water, flashlights, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, blankets, phone chargers, extra charged power banks, batteries, and a radio. It doesn’t hurt to include extra pairs of tennis shoes, and if you have them, bicycle helmets. Also, make sure you know where your important documents are and keep copies with you if they are not in a safe deposit box or an in-home safe. If you have a generator, make sure it works!
- Protect your property: Trim trees and branches near your home, secure loose objects, and reinforce doors and windows. Regular maintenance can really help your home survive storms with minimal damage, so also make sure you keep trees pruned, remove dead/dying trees, and keep gutters and drains cleaned out. Store cars in your garage, bring in potted plants, and put away outdoor equipment.
- Evacuate if necessary: If authorities recommend or order an evacuation, follow their instructions promptly.
- Seek shelter: Identify safe places in your home or community to take shelter during severe weather events such as tornadoes or hurricanes.
- Stay connected: Have a way to stay connected with loved ones during and after a severe weather event, such as a mobile phone or two-way radio.
After the Storm
Once the storm has passed, you’ll want to check for any possible damage. If you do have damage, in addition to calling a professional for help with repairs, you might also consider calling your insurance agent to check the terms of your homeowner’s policy and what will be covered subject to your deductible.
When assessing your home, here’s what to look for:
- damaged, missing, or lifted shingles from the roof
- missing or dented gutters
- cracked windows and damaged window frames
- siding damage
- water stains or standing water in a basement or crawl space
- damage to HVAC equipment
You will also, more than likely, have some clean-up to do outside after the storm passes. Depending on the severity of the storm and the amount and type of debris, you may need to have some supplies before you tackle the detritus. Definitely use gloves, and get heavy-duty trash bags. Steer clear of spilled chemicals, and keep children out of harm’s way.
Lastly, be a good neighbor. Check on the people who live close by, make sure they are okay, and ask if they need help with clean-up or repairs.
We hope everyone starts to prepare now! Have a great spring and summer, and stay safe!
For all of the latest information on our local real estate market in Southwestern Indiana and Northwestern Kentucky, you can always trust the professionals at F.C. Tucker Emge and F.C. Tucker/Collier. Our agents have superior training and resources at their disposal to better educate you about the road to homeownership. Even if you are 6-12 months (or more!) out from making a change, there is a lot to learn about the home buying and selling process, and our agents can help you learn what you need to know so that you can be confident in your decision and have a smooth experience when the time comes. Let’s Talk!
