Severe Weather Awareness Week - Hail and Wind Safety

Today's topic is on Hail and Wind Safety. Who can forget 8/10/2020? Most people had never heard the term "derecho" before that day. Then March of 2022, tornado. Followed by May of 2023, hail. Severe weather has always been a part of weather in Iowa. The secret is to be prepared.

Navigating Hail and Wind Safety: Essential Tips for Severe Weather Awareness Week

As Severe Weather Awareness Week unfolds, it's imperative to delve into the nuances of hail and wind safety. While tornadoes often steal the spotlight during severe weather discussions, hail and strong winds can wreak havoc on communities, causing significant damage to property and posing serious threats to life and safety. This week, let's explore key strategies to help you stay safe and prepared when facing hail and wind storms.

Understanding Hail and Wind:

Hail is formed when strong updrafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops into extremely cold regions of the atmosphere, where they freeze into small ice pellets. These pellets can vary in size, ranging from pea-sized to as large as grapefruits or even softballs. When hailstones fall to the ground at high speeds, they can cause damage to vehicles, buildings, crops, and other structures.

Strong winds are another common feature of severe thunderstorms, capable of causing widespread destruction. Straight-line winds, often associated with thunderstorm downdrafts or microbursts, can reach speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour, toppling trees, power lines, and causing structural damage.

Safety Tips for Hail and Wind Storms:

1. Stay Informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and warnings issued by reputable sources such as the National Weather Service (NWS) or local meteorological agencies. Pay attention to severe thunderstorm watches and warnings, which may indicate the potential for hail, damaging winds, and other hazardous weather conditions. Did you know that outdoor warning sirens are activated in Newton (and Jasper County) when winds exceed 72 mph or strong winds accompanied by hail capable of producing serious injury? Outdoor warning sirens are also activated for golf ball sized hail or larger.
2. Seek Shelter: When hail and strong winds threaten, seek shelter indoors in a sturdy building or structure. Stay away from windows, doors, and exterior walls, which may be vulnerable to wind-driven debris or hail impacts. If you're caught outdoors, seek shelter in a substantial building or vehicle, and avoid seeking refuge under trees or in open fields.
3. Protect Your Property: Minimize potential damage to your property by securing loose outdoor objects such as patio furniture, trash cans, and lawn decorations. Park vehicles in a garage or carport, if available, to shield them from hail and wind damage. Consider installing impact-resistant roofing materials and reinforcing windows to mitigate damage from hailstorms.
4. Stay Away from Downed Power Lines: After a severe windstorm, be cautious of downed power lines, which may still be energized and pose electrocution hazards. Keep a safe distance and report downed power lines to local authorities or utility companies immediately. Avoid driving over fallen power lines or through flooded areas, as they may conceal hidden dangers.
5. Check for Damage: After the storm passes, carefully inspect your property for damage caused by hail and wind. Check roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles for signs of impact or structural compromise. Document any damage with photographs and contact your insurance provider to file a claim if necessary.

Hail and strong winds are formidable forces of nature that demand respect and preparedness. By staying informed, seeking shelter, protecting your property, and exercising caution during and after severe weather events, you can mitigate the risks associated with hail and wind storms. This Severe Weather Awareness Week, take the time to review your emergency plans, reinforce your home's resilience, and ensure that you're prepared to face the challenges of severe weather head-on.

For more information and resources on hail and wind safety, visit the National Weather Service website at www.weather.gov/safety/wind or www.weather.gov/safety/thunderstorm.

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