Why Storm Damage Preparedness Is Important for Media, PA, Residents

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Media explains how homeowners can be prepared for severe weather and tornadoes in Media, PA, and Delaware County.

SERVPRO of Media, PA, urges homeowners in Media and the surrounding Delaware County area of Pennsylvania to be prepared for the heavy rains, hail, strong winds, lightning, flooding, and tornadic activity that cause serious storm damage, property loss, personal injury, and loss of life. The certified storm damage restoration professionals understand the devastating damage a tornado or severe thunderstorm can do to a home, and they provide a rapid response in order to promptly begin the storm damage restoration process.

What Makes Media, PA, So Special?

Residents know Media is a special place to live, work, go to school, worship, and enjoy family and friends. The cozy town seat of Delaware County is often described in glowing terms. In a guide to moving to and living in Media, Suburban Solutions writes, “Media, PA, a popular suburb of Philadelphia, is a town like no other. The Media nickname is Everybody’s Hometown thanks to its welcoming, close-knit community. For many, living in Media, Pennsylvania is a dream come true! The town has been named one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania thanks to its fun nightlife, great public schools, low crime, diversity, and family amenities. It’s also been ranked as one of America’s coolest suburbs. Residents love its famously walkable and charming town center with green space, bars, art galleries, movie theaters, boutiques, and more.”

Severe Weather in Media, PA

As tranquil as the region may seem, Delaware County, of which Media is the county seat, is only one county away from Pennsylvania’s most high-risk area for tornadoes, which includes York County, Lancaster County, and Dauphin County.

SERVPRO of Media emphasizes storm damage preparedness for residents of Media as tornado season approaches. Thankfully, Delaware County is a low-risk area for tornadoes. According to records, the largest tornado in the Delaware County area was an F3 tornado in 1994 that caused 11 injuries and no deaths. Though tornado risk is low, Media’s proximity to areas of higher risk makes it vulnerable to severe weather often associated with tornadic activity. Natural changes in weather patterns may also impact the frequency and severity of tornadoes in Media and the surrounding areas.

Types of Storm Damage from Severe Weather

High winds can cause property damage that mimics the effects of a tornado. Portions of the roof, including shingles and plywood sheeting, can be ripped up, exposing the attic and underlying rooms to serious water damage. Even more concerning, high winds can topple large trees onto a home, causing severe structural damage. Pennsylvania saw twenty-two confirmed tornadoes in 2019 and averages about sixteen tornadoes per year. July is usually the most active month for tornadoes.

Storm Damage Preparedness in Media, PA

Tip #1: Prepare the home for a tornado or severe weather.

Peak times for severe weather and that rare tornado are spring and early summer. July is the worst month for tornadoes. If Lancaster and York Counties are under a tornado warning, turbulent weather may visit Media and Delaware County as well. Make preparations in early spring before the bad weather hits. Some preparations may require the assistance of professionals with special equipment, training, certifications, and insurance.

• Trim diseased trees and broken limbs.
• Consider installing permanent protective shutters on windows that can be closed quickly.
• Strengthen the garage door or doors.
• Sign up to receive cell phone notifications from the local warning system or the Emergency Alert System.
• Move lawn furniture, the grill, garbage cans, and other loose debris that can blow around the yard and cause property damage.

Tip #2: Conduct a tornado/severe weather drill.

• Go to the basement or have a designated “safe room” and a set escape route.
• Stay away from windows.
• Get under a heavy table and cover with thick pillows if there is time.
• Use a mattress as a shield if there is no time to get under a table.

Tip #3: Stay safe on the road.

• If conditions warrant, park the vehicle and seek shelter in a sturdy building.
• If escape is impossible, stay in the car with the seat belt buckled. Use the hands to protect the head.
• Avoid seeking shelter under a bridge or underpass. Flying debris can cause severe bodily injury.

Tip #4: Know the difference between a tornado watch and a warning.

• A tornado watch indicates that tornadoes are possible in the area.
• A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted, and it is time to take action by seeking appropriate shelter.

Tip #5: Prepare an emergency survival kit and keep it in an accessible location.

Be aware that a large severe weather cell can do more damage than a localized tornado. An all-purpose emergency survival kit should have the following items.

• One gallon of water per person in the household per day for at least three days
• Enough food for each person for three days
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, as well as a NOAA weather radio, to stay informed about weather updates
• A flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and local maps

Tip #6: Know what should not be done during a tornado or severe weather.

If severe weather or a tornado is in the area, do not go outside to check the weather or look for a potential tornado. Opening windows to equalize air pressure is a myth. Seek shelter in an interior room on the lowest level of the home. Use a flashlight instead of candles if the power goes out.

Tip #7: Inspect the home for damage after the tornado or severe weather has passed.

Wait until the weather authorities give the “all clear” to venture outside the structure. Inspect the home’s exterior, the roof, trees, powerlines, vehicles, and other property. Downed power lines pose a real danger of electrocution.

By following these simple tips on what to do before, during, and after severe weather or a tornado, homeowners, as well as their family, friends, and neighbors, can be better prepared when inclement weather or a rare tornado is in the Media and Delaware County area.

When storm damage strikes, be prepared to call the industry leader in water, storm, and flood damage restoration, SERVPRO of Media. They are available 24/7 and can arrive at the damaged property in about an hour to start the storm damage restoration process, beginning with emergency tarping if needed.

For more information about storm damage restoration in Media, PA, contact SERVPRO of Media by phone at (610) 566-5720 or by email at office@SERVPROmedia.com.