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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Storm Damage Blog Posts

Keeping The Dampness Away After A Flood

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and other intrusive water can damage a Somersworth home rapidly, showing visible signs immediately. Other damage that continues unabated within the hidden areas of a home's interior cavities can lead to severe infestations of microbes, allow insect pests to nest and burrow in softened materials, and create unwanted odors. 
 
Residents in Somersworth might find that elevated humidity in their home continues to occur after they experience flood damage to their property. This can happen when small pockets of moisture in your home go undetected. One common location is lower surfaces in basement floors. SERVPRO's technicians are IICRC Certified to get these areas dry for you and protect your home from the continued negative effects of damage from flooding. 
 
Water that continued to seep into damaged areas of your home's basement after a flood can smell particularly dank because of the additional odors picked up from the soil underneath your home. Even though the soil can act as a filter, the water's odor and still smell foul, even though it no longer smells like floodwater. The soil around homes that experienced flooding can become so saturated their foundations sometimes move. The pressure can become extremely intense. 
 
If flood damage seems to revisit your home again a short time after mitigation workers complete the initial work, we can help restore your home, so odors and continued damp conditions no longer occur. Desiccant machines can prove highly effective in these situations, as can our air scrubbers. Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) can run machines that produce either ozone and hydroxyl gases to eliminate odors from further bothering you and your family. 
 
Eliminating dangerous excess moisture in your home accomplishes more than hindering the growth of microbial and other infestations and keeping your home smelling normal – it also protects occupants from inhaling damp air. SERVPRO technicians can quickly remove any additional materials damaged by this leftover flood damage, test and treat for any microbial activity, and also use different odor-controlling techniques that leave your home smelling “Like it never even happened.”

How do we even name our storms?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Katrina.  Harvey.  Sandy. Andrew.  These aren't just any names - these are some of the most costly and deadly storms in our recent history.  But just how do storms get their names?  Read along to find out!

Prior to 1950, storms were not formally named.  In 1950, storms began being named for men.  In 1953, meteorologists switched to women's names, and in 1979, included both.  Today, the naming of storms is controlled by the World Meteorological Organization.  For Atlantic storms, the names go on a six year rotation.  Names are retired if the storm is particularly destructive. Here's a list of retired storm names.  

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How to storm-proof your home

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Although it's not common, hurricanes have hit our area before.  Here's a handy list.  As well as the occasion hurricane, we've also been hit with derechos and other harmful weather patterns.  If you find one on the way this summer, here's how to prepare your house:

  • Reinforce your garage door
  • Fix any loose tiles
  • Trim your tree of any dead limbs
  • Take inventory of your home
  • Reinforce your windows with plywood
  • Don't forget to reinforce glass doors too!

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Everything You Need to Know for Power Outages

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

As summer continues and fall approaches, we may see some major power outages across the nation. Power outages can not only be dangerous to you and your family; but they can also cause immense stress if you are not properly prepared.

According to ready.gov:

Before a Power Outage:

  • Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
  • Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power.
  • Charge cell phones and any battery powered devices.
  • Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it.
  • Purchase ice or freeze water-filled plastic containers to help keep food cold during a temporary power outage.
  • Keep your car’s gas tank full; gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. If you use your car to re-charge devices, do NOT keep the car running in a garage, partially enclosed space, or close to a home, this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by visiting your state’s or local website so you can locate the closest cooling and warming shelters.
  • If you rely on anything that is battery-operated or power dependent like a medical device determine a back-up plan.

During a Power Outage

  • Only use flashlights for emergency lighting, candles can cause fires.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
  • Take steps to remain cool if it is hot outside. In intense heat when the power may be off for a long time, consider going to a movie theater, shopping mall or “cooling shelter” that may be open in your community. If you remain at home, move to the lowest level of your home, since cool air falls. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
  • Put on layers of warm clothing if it is cold outside. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors. Never use your oven as a source of heat. If the power may be out for a prolonged period, plan to go to another location (the home of a relative or friend, or a public facility) that has heat to keep warm.
  • Turn off or disconnect appliances and other equipment in case of a momentary power “surge” that can damage computers and other devices. Consider adding surge protectors.
  • If you are considering purchasing a generator for your home, consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing.
  • Only use generators away from your home and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home's electrical system.

If you experience a water damage after a storm, call SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233 to remediate your damage and restore you home to pre-storm damage condition.

Need to get out in a hurry?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

As the old saying goes, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago.  The second best time is today."  If a storm hits, you'll be glad you prepared ahead of time and can concentrate on being a helper.

One way to prepare for a storm is to create a "bug out bag."  This contains things you'll need if services such as electricity and stores are discontinued for a few days after a storm.  Experts typically recommend having three days worth of supplies.  Here are some items to consider:

  • bottled water
  • dehydrated food / MREs
  • extra changes of clothes
  • a wool blanket
  • tools
  • first aid kit
  • flashlight and batteries
  • external battery charger
  • dust mask and gloves
  • poncho

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Storms 101: Thunderstorms

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

Welcome to segment two of our Storms 101 series.  Today we'll be talking about thunderstorms.  Did you know that across the globe, there are over 1800 thunderstorms a day?  Although it can be nice to listen to a thunderstorm with a cup of coffee, they can also be very dangerous.  Lightning injures more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes.  Lightning can also cause damage to house wiring.

So what causes a thunderstorm?  They form when an air mass becomes unstable and overturns.  Unstable means that the bottom layer is hot and humid, the top layer is cool, or both. Air pockets near the surface rises, expands, and cools, This makes the air pockets get warmer than the environment, which makes it rise even higher.  Water vapor in the air condenses and forms a convective cloud.  Bingo! Thunderstorm time! 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Flood Damage Cleanup

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen when runoff from the mountains causes the water levels of small creeks to rise to unsafe levels. The waters move fast and can reach heights of ten to twenty feet easily. When floodwaters end up in homes, they can cause severe damage to the structures and contents.

If your home floods, you should turn off the utilities until emergency officials say that is it safe to turn them on. Also avoid weakened walls, floors, and roofs. Floodwater may contain chemical toxins, bacteria, mud, and sewage. Therefore, wear rubber boots, masks, and gloves before you begin cleaning up your home. If the floodwater has soaked items like upholstered furniture, carpet and pad, and mattresses, it is advisable to discard them because it is difficult to clean them adequately. You should also discard all the food that came into contact with the floodwater. If you have canned foods, wash the cans thoroughly before opening.

Calling SERVPRO franchise professionals to assist you with the cleanup efforts is also vital. We have competent technicians who can help you get back to your home within a short time. We're available around the clock for emergency call-outs. Whether working with your insurance company or directly with you, our Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRTs) can assess the destruction to your property, offer an estimate, and handle the restoration process. We can provide your insurance company with images, videos, measurements, and other pertinent information using insurance-industry approved and preferred methods for resolving claims seamlessly.

We use advanced equipment to extract water from floors, basements, and crawl spaces quickly to expedite drying. We can remove water from many types of flooring using wet vacuuming. Our crew then dries the affected areas using air movers and dehumidifiers. Our professionals also use air scrubbers to filter the air. Using air scrubbers helps control the spread of air-borne mold spores and other harmful microorganisms.

We also use germicides and disinfectants to destroy microorganisms. They destroy up to 99 percent of the organisms they contact on the surfaces where we apply them. These products may or may not affect fungal or bacterial spores, which are typically dormant, reproductive bodies. The common disinfects we use include phenols, quaternary, chlorines, and alcohol.

Flooding may also leave unpleasant scents in your home. Our SERVPRO crew can apply deodorizers to eliminate bad odors. We can also use deodorizers that remove wet material odors that you may misinterpret as mold. Our team can use an electric sprayer, pump sprayer, or mister to apply the deodorizers directly to the affected materials.

After a flooding incident, contact SERVPRO of Huntington for help. We have the expertise to perform proper cleanup of your home to make the water intrusion seem “Like it never even happened.” Call us any time at(304) 429-2233.

Power Outages During A Storm

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Have you suffered a power outage? 

Outages in your home can be caused by a storm, floods, or even fires. The storms are headed this way as summer turns to fall. Keep your family safe during these changing seasons. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Keep your family safe by following these tips from our friends at the American Red Cross:

Staying Safe Indoors

  • Use flash lights in the dark, not candles.
  • Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic lights will be out and roads will be congested.
  • If you are using a generator be sure you understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to use generators safely.
  • If you know a storm is coming have shoes close by so you are not stepping on anything that could harm you (i.e. glass, debris, other items that could have caused storm damage in your home)
  • Battery operated devices: to keep you up to date on outages and storm warnings.

Keep these tips on the top of your mind so you and your family are safe during the next power outage. 

Summer's Natural Disasters

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Every summer, the U.S. goes through an “active weather” season. The middle of spring through summer is a prime time for hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, thunderstorms, and fires. Here at SERVPRO of Huntington, we’ve already begun to see the impact of the severe weather. In West Virginia, we have already experienced a massive amount of rain. Luckily, our SERVPRO team is here for any natural disaster. We respond to water, wind and fire damage! Here are some weather events to look out for during the spring and summer months:

  • Hurricanes–Hurricanes, with the accompanying wind, water, and flood, cause a lot of destruction in areas where they hit. When hurricanes gather strength, buildings, trees, and water infrastructures are commonly destroyed. The storms can also knock down power lines, posing a risk of electrocution.
  • Tornadoes– Tornadoes are characterized by whirling winds and debris and can endanger life and property. They are common from spring until the middle of summer but can occur any time of the year.
  • Floods– Floods are becoming more common in the U.S., with flash floods as the top weather-related killer. A few inches of water could bring extensive damage to homes and buildings. Heavy rains, levee breaches, and tsunamis cause floods. Many floods occur in areas that cannot absorb rainwater.
  • Fires– The heat of the summer and the years of drought experienced in many parts of the country can precipitate massive forest fires that, in many instances, affect dwellings. Spontaneous combustion, volcanic eruption, and faulty electrical wires are other common causes of fires.

Sump Pump Failures

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Power Failure

Your primary sump pump should not be treated any different than any other appliance in your home - without power, it is completely worthless.  As a safeguard, invest in a high quality battery back-up sump pump.   A battery kept continually charged by the backup system operates a separate pump linked to the discharge pipe, providing you hours of protection until power is restored. Some backup pumps even monitor the condition of the battery and alert you when it needs to be replaced.

Frozen Discharge Pipe

If the discharge pipe is not installed pitched properly, water will collect and eventually freeze, causing a blockage. 

Switch Stuck in Place

There are several different types of sump float switches.  Vertical and tethered floats are the most common.  Vertical floats seem to work the best as tethered floats are known for  getting stuck on the side walls of the sump pit (resulting in a flooded basement). 

Over-worked / Under-Powered Sump Pump

Not all pumps are created equal.  Make sure you install the correct horsepower pump capable of keeping up with your flow of water.   

Old Age

It is generally recommended that sump pumps should be replaced every five to seven years in order to be reasonably safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

Protecting Your Property

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Flash Flood Warning-- the alert that many of us dread because of the concerns that our homes will be affected by it. SERVPRO of Huntington understands that your home is more than a structure: it's your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings that help transform a house into a home.  Here are some helpful suggestions on how to protect your property just in case disaster happens.

 How to Protect Your Property:

  • Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. Keep them in a place where it's least likely to be damaged by a flood.
  • Raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel to higher floors if there are areas in your home that are capable of being flooded. 
  • Install check valves in building sewer traps top prevent flood water from backing up into drains of your home. 
  • Seal walls in basements with waterproofing elements to avoid leakage through cracks. 

Winter Storm Water

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Many people are unprepared for the quickly approaching winter season and the winter storms that bring frigid temperatures along with ice and snow.  SERVPRO of Huntington recommends having a winter checklist for your home or business to help prevent water damage from winter storms.

Here are a few items to consider:

  • Put weather stripping on doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering.
  • Insulate water pipes to help prevent them from freezing and possibly bursting.
  • Check your roof for possible leaks and loose or broken shingles.
  • Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable.
  • Trim tree limbs that are close to the house.
  • Clean gutters.
  • Stock up on ice melt.

If your property is affected by a disaster, such as water damage, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233;  we are always here to help.

#HereToHelp

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy rains this season continue to cause water damage to homes and businesses in our area.  Our crews are trained and IICRC certified to clean and dry your damaged property to industry standards. Our trucks are always loaded with the right equipment and ready to dispatch to any size disaster, no matter how big or small your loss is we're happy to help you make it "Like it never even happened."  With the right experience and equipment, the men and women from SERVPRO of Huntington stand ready to answer the call, day or night, rain or shine.

If you have any flood damage or water damage in your home or business call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Huntington at (304) 429-2233.  Our experienced crews are always here to help.

How to Handle Storm Damage

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

When storm damage hits Huntington homes and businesses, it's important to know what to do until SERVPRO crews get on site.

  • Call SERVPRO at 304-429-2233 immediately upon discovering damage.
  • Shut off the source of water (ie: replace sump pump) or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.  Use a shop vac or carpet cleaning machine to suck water from carpets.  Do Not use a household vacuum cleaner.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Remove electronics, documents, sensitive or valuable items to a dry place.
  • Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting and window curtains off damp floors.
  • Pull carpet back from the walls to limit water wicking into the drywall.

Storm/Flood Preparation

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Flood Facts

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

  • Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
  • Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
  • Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
  • A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

  • Stock up on First Aid items
  • Non-perishable foods
  • Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
  • Battery operated radio for weather reports
  • Extra batteries
  • Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Keeping The Dampness Away After A Flood

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and other intrusive water can damage a Somersworth home rapidly, showing visible signs immediately. Other damage that continues unabated within the hidden areas of a home's interior cavities can lead to severe infestations of microbes, allow insect pests to nest and burrow in softened materials, and create unwanted odors. 
 
Residents in Somersworth might find that elevated humidity in their home continues to occur after they experience flood damage to their property. This can happen when small pockets of moisture in your home go undetected. One common location is lower surfaces in basement floors. SERVPRO's technicians are IICRC Certified to get these areas dry for you and protect your home from the continued negative effects of damage from flooding. 
 
Water that continued to seep into damaged areas of your home's basement after a flood can smell particularly dank because of the additional odors picked up from the soil underneath your home. Even though the soil can act as a filter, the water's odor and still smell foul, even though it no longer smells like floodwater. The soil around homes that experienced flooding can become so saturated their foundations sometimes move. The pressure can become extremely intense. 
 
If flood damage seems to revisit your home again a short time after mitigation workers complete the initial work, we can help restore your home, so odors and continued damp conditions no longer occur. Desiccant machines can prove highly effective in these situations, as can our air scrubbers. Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) can run machines that produce either ozone and hydroxyl gases to eliminate odors from further bothering you and your family. 
 
Eliminating dangerous excess moisture in your home accomplishes more than hindering the growth of microbial and other infestations and keeping your home smelling normal – it also protects occupants from inhaling damp air. SERVPRO technicians can quickly remove any additional materials damaged by this leftover flood damage, test and treat for any microbial activity, and also use different odor-controlling techniques that leave your home smelling “Like it never even happened.”

Is My Sump Pump Working?

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Tips to Avoid Water Damage

No power: If the power goes out during a storm, your sump pump won’t be able to drain the water

Wrong size: If your sump pump is too small a sump pump for your home’s size can mean too big a job for it to handle. On the flip side, running too large a sump pump can shorten its lifespan.

Old age: Just like any appliance, the years can reduce the efficiency and working order of your sump pump. The average lifespan of a sump pump is roughly 10 years. If yours is creeping up in age, consider replacing it with a more current model.

Clogged pipe: Debris can enter your discharge pipe and create a backup. With nowhere for water to flow, your sump pump will come to a stop.

Lack of maintenance: Your home and the appliances that make it run require regular maintenance. Clean your sump pump three to four times a year to avoid blockages in your discharge line, vents, and floats.

Switch issues: When the sump pump shifts in the basin, the float that administers the switch can cause it to become jammed.

Product or installation problem: In addition to product defects, which are out of your control, improper installation can also cause sump pump failure.

Sump pump fails and causes water damage while you are out of town

DIY bug out bag

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

As the old saying goes, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago.  The second best time is today."  If a storm hits, you'll be glad you prepared ahead of time and can concentrate on being a helper.

One way to prepare for a storm is to create a "bug out bag."  This contains things you'll need if services such as electricity and stores are discontinued for a few days after a storm.  Experts typically recommend having three days worth of supplies.  Here are some items to consider:

  • bottled water
  • dehydrated food / MREs
  • extra changes of clothes
  • a wool blanket
  • tools
  • first aid kit
  • flashlight and batteries
  • external battery charger
  • dust mask and gloves
  • poncho

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How storms are named

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

Katrina.  Harvey.  Sandy. Andrew.  These aren't just any names - these are some of the most costly and deadly storms in our recent history.  But just how do storms get their names?  Read along to find out!

Prior to 1950, storms were not formally named.  In 1950, storms began being named for men.  In 1953, meteorologists switched to women's names, and in 1979, included both.  Today, the naming of storms is controlled by the World Meteorological Organization.  For Atlantic storms, the names go on a six year rotation.  Names are retired if the storm is particularly destructive. Here's a list of retired storm names.  

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How to storm-proof your home

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Although it's not common, hurricanes have hit our area before.  Here's a handy list.  As well as the occasion hurricane, we've also been hit with derechos and other harmful weather patterns.  If you find one on the way this summer, here's how to prepare your house:

  • Reinforce your garage door
  • Fix any loose tiles
  • Trim your tree of any dead limbs
  • Take inventory of your home
  • Reinforce your windows with plywood
  • Don't forget to reinforce glass doors too!

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Storms 101: Rain

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

It's time for the last installment of Storms 101.  Did you know that Huntington gets an average of 42 inches of rain a year?  That's three inches over the national average! Just how does rain happen, though?

Our atmosphere is made up of small dust particles called condensation nuclei, which are created from things like volcanic eruptions, pollution, fires, and other events.  The sun heats up bodies of water like the ocean, and water vapor rises into the air.  The condensed water vapor sticks to the condensation nuclei and creates clouds. 

When enough water condenses, the droplets get heavy enough to fall back down to the ground.  If it's cold enough for the droplets to freeze, that creates snow.  If not, it becomes rain and the cycle starts all over again.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Storms 101: Thunderstorms

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Welcome to segment two of our Storms 101 series.  Today we'll be talking about thunderstorms.  Did you know that across the globe, there are over 1800 thunderstorms a day?  Although it can be nice to listen to a thunderstorm with a cup of coffee, they can also be very dangerous.  Lightning injures more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes.  Lightning can also cause damage to house wiring.

So what causes a thunderstorm?  They form when an air mass becomes unstable and overturns.  Unstable means that the bottom layer is hot and humid, the top layer is cool, or both. Air pockets near the surface rises, expands, and cools, This makes the air pockets get warmer than the environment, which makes it rise even higher.  Water vapor in the air condenses and forms a convective cloud.  Bingo! Thunderstorm time! 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Storms 101: Damaging Winds

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

April's showers are over, so it's time for May flowers... and May storms. Between the cold of winter and the heat of summer, spring is high time for thunderstorms, high winds, and rain.  But what causes these storms? In the next few weeks, SERVPRO of Huntington will be covering what causes certain weather patterns. 

Damaging Winds

Damaging winds, often called "straight-line winds" to differentiate from tornadoes, are any wind exceeding 50-60 miles per hour.  Any wind is caused by air moving from high atmospheric pressures to low ones; this is called a pressure gradient.  Damaging winds are caused when a pressure gradient changes quickly over a small distance. 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.