The Dangers Associated With Thunderstorms

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Many people who live in areas that are prone to thunderstorms will begin to discount their dangers over time. While thunderstorms happen frequently and often do not cause any serious problems, there is always the potential that significant damages can occur. Thunderstorms always contain high winds and lightning, with hail and flooding being common as well.

Thunderstorms are defined as any storms that produces thunder, which means it is also producing lightning. A severe thunderstorm is any storm with hail that is an inch or more in diameter, and winds of over 58 miles per hour. With these conditions, there are many dangers to be cognisant of, which we will examine below.

What Dangers Can Thunderstorms Cause?

Damage and injury from lightning strikes. Lightning strikes are one of the most dangerous elements of thunderstorms, and it is reported that they cause around 300 injuries every year. This does not include the damage that lightning can cause to homes, such as starting a house fire or felling trees that can then fall on structures. Every thunderstorm also produces lightning, so even if you do not see it, it is a possibility.

Property damage due to hail. While hail does not occur during every storm, if the thunderstorm is classified as severe that means hail will be present. Hail can present serious dangers to property, and can also cause injury if someone is caught outside in the storm. Hail has been known to not only dent cars, but also damage the siding and roofs of homes that are in its path due to the serious speeds it can fall at if conditions are right.

Harm from flash flooding. While people often think that flooding is not a concern in their area, flash flooding can happen nearly anywhere if conditions are right. Backed up drains, overwhelmed ditches and other temporary clogs can quickly cause a flash flood if the rain is significant. Floodwaters can damage homes and cars and also cause serious injury or death—a car can get swept up in just a few inches of water if the current is strong, and this amount can also quickly knock someone off their feet.

Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us ²⁴⁄₇ for more information about our storm restoration practices.