Jerry Jones, Certified Restorer, Certified Mold Remediator
The 2003 hurricane season is upon us. It began June 1 and runs until November 30. This is the period when hurricanes are most likely to develop.
During the latter 1990’s, hurricanes such as Andrew, Bertha, Dennis, Fran, and Floyd impacted the lives of property owners, insurance companies, and restoration firms such as AFTERDISASTER® in the states along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. Weather analysts attributed the increase in the hurricane activity during that period to a cycle called El Niño. The last two years have been relatively quiet for the U.S. Weather analysts report the end of El Niño, but warn that now we are entering a cycle called La Niña, which will produce another increase. The Updated Forecast of Atlantic Seasonal Hurricane Activity & U.S. Landfill Strike Probability for 2003 by the Department of Atmospheric Science at Colorado State University predicts this hurricane season will produce 14 named storms, including 8 hurricanes, including 3 intense hurricanes. The National Weather Service’s AOAA 2003 Atlantic Hurricane Outlook calls for 11-15 tropical storms, including 6-9 hurricanes, including 2-4 major hurricanes. Compare these predictions with the average year’s 9.6 named storms, including 5.9 hurricanes, including 2.3 intense hurricanes.
Tropical cyclones are low-pressure systems rotating counterclockwise and with thunderstorm activity. Systems with winds up to 38 mph are called tropical depressions. As the wind speed increases to 39-73 mph it is called a tropical storm. When the wind speed exceeds 74 mph, the storm becomes a hurricane. Hurricane strength is categorized on a scale from 1-5, starting with Category 1 (winds of 74-95 mph, central pressure of 28.94″ or more, and a storm surge of 4-5′) and progressing up to Category 5 (winds over 156 mph, central pressure of 27.16″ and lower, and storm surge of 18.1′ and more.) The amount of damage resulting from a hurricane usually increases as the category level increases, but even more relative to the damage from each category are other factors such as location, structure design, building materials involved, timing, duration, forward movement, other specific weather factors within the storm (hail, tornadoes, lightning, etc.), and especially the degree of preparedness. Hurricanes often create water damage, wind damage, roof damage, structural damage, mold damage, sewage damage, sand intrusion, flooding, corrosion, erosion, pest control problems, power outage related problems, etc.
The first step in preparedness is increased awareness. Advanced weather equipment detects, measures, tracks, and helps predict activity far more accurately than ever before. General patterns are often detected earlier so needed watches or warnings can be issued much earlier. Meteorologists, climatologists, and weather forecasters now share information and predictions instantly over the internet. The general public is better informed by media presentations about hurricanes
in general and by faster access to weather information via dedicated television weather channels, radio channels, and e-mail to computers and cellular phones. More and more residents and travelers in these areas are noticing the evacuation route signs posted in coastal areas.
Another step in preparedness is better construction of buildings and use of better building materials to help increase the strength and durability of structures to survive the storms. Many new designs and materials are recommended and available.
Some preparation occurs before any storm develops. Post all needed telephone numbers for quick reference. Battery operated lights, a portable TV and radio, first aid kit, toilet paper, non-perishable food, a water jug and disposable cups, paper plates and plastic utensils, garbage bags, extra clothes, blankets and sleeping bags, plywood for board-ups, tarps for leaks, masking or duct tape, waterproof matches and charcoal, basic tools, a saw, and a non-electric can opener can be purchased and stored for a variety of emergencies. As the storm approaches, fresh water, fresh batteries, fresh fuel, and fresh prescription medicine should all be purchased and stocked. Don’t forget the pet food. Secure items outside and remove outside antennas. Store key papers and valuables in a waterproof container on the highest level. Vehicles should be fueled and ready. Withdraw enough cash for an emergency petty cash fund. Once a watch or warning is issued, all of these will probably get more expensive and hard to find. Because storms can change direction and intensity very quickly, be prepared to evacuate in a moment’s notice. Predetermine what will be taken ahead of time.
Never risk health or safety. Everything else can be restored or replaced if damaged. Everyone should know where to meet. Don’t forget to provide for pets. (They are not permitted in emergency shelters.) If evacuation is needed, leave ASAP. Lines get much slower and longer at the last minute. Before leaving, turn off electricity, gas, and water. Shut down computers and electronics. Cover, cushion, and protect as many valuable contents as possible.
If the storm hits before evacuation is possible or evacuation is deemed unnecessary, stay inside away from windows and doors. If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce the power surge when electricity is restored. Do not venture outside during the eye of the storm.
After the storm, return only when authorities permit and stay away from downed power lines or flooding streets. When re-entering, look for unsafe conditions. Storms often cause flooding, damaged roofs or roof leaks, broken windows and doors, structural damage to walls/ceilings/floors, sewage backups, electrical hazards, slippery surfaces, and other forms of wind or water damage to the structure and contents. Watch out for any outside animals that may have entered the building for protection from the storm. If damage has occurred or is still in progress, contact a qualified water damage restoration company ASAP to assist in the remediation, cleanup, drying, repair, and restoration of the structure and contents. Keep in mind, however, that if the damage in the community is widespread, emergency services and resources may be strained, causing some delays. Patience by everyone will be welcomed.
Many insurance companies, property managers, residential and commercial property owners, and adjusting firms keep AFTERDISASTER‘s telephone numbers close at hand as part of their preparedness planning. Many maintenance, cleaning, and restoration companies often join the AFTERDISASTER Referral Network established to help provide the heavy emergency service needs of their customers during the aftermath of the storm. AFTERDISASTER has extensive drying equipment and personnel ready to assist. Call your local AFTERDISASTER Business Center today to find out more.