What causes damage during a storm?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

One of the many end results of a storm. This tree was uprooted by high winds, and fell onto this house causing damage.

Since the beginning of April, West Michigan has seen eight occurrences of severe storm weather according to the National Weather Service. Storms during this time left hundreds without power and caused thousands of dollars worth of property damage. Thunder storms are one of the most common severe weather threats seen in Michigan, but what in these storms brings about so much damage?

High Winds
Thunder storms have the potential to reach wind speeds of up to 120 MPH, and can cause enough damage to rival a tornado. Wind becomes capable of damaging structures between 40-50 MPH. High speed winds can uproot trees, knock down powerlines, damage roofs, and turn lighter objects into high speed projectiles.

Hail
Thunder storms are capable of producing hail of all sizes. Large hail can dent cars, damage roofs, and even break windows. On average hail storms last only 5 minutes, but are responsible for an estimated one billion dollars of damage annually.

Lightning
Lightning occurs regularly during thunderstorms. Each flash takes an average of 0.2 seconds and can heat up the air surrounding it to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightning can cause fires if it strikes something flammable, and when hitting a house can surge though and permanently damage appliances plugged into outlets.

Flooding
Storms can be capable of producing flash floods within minutes of rainfall. Rising water can cause mudslides, tear out trees, and destroy buildings. Along with physical damage, flood water can produce health risks when mixed with sewage, chemicals, and debris that get swept up during the flooding.

Storm damage can happen fast and leave you searching for answers on how to recover. SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids and SERVPRO of Ionia & Montcalm Counties responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Northeast Grand Rapids home or business back to pre-storm condition.

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