Why Summer Storms Hit the Tennessee Valley Hard
The Tennessee Valley sits in a unique geographic position that makes it especially vulnerable to severe summer weather. Warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico collides with cooler fronts moving south, creating conditions ripe for powerful thunderstorms, damaging winds, and even tornadoes. From June through September, Huntsville, Decatur, and surrounding communities see some of the most intense storm activity of the year.
At All States Restoration, we respond to storm damage calls throughout the Tennessee Valley every summer. The good news is that many of the worst outcomes can be prevented or minimized with proper preparation.
Essential Steps to Storm-Proof Your Home
- Inspect your roof: Look for loose, cracked, or missing shingles. Even minor damage can become a major leak during heavy rain.
- Clean gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters cause water to back up under your roofline, leading to interior water damage.
- Trim overhanging branches: Dead or weak limbs near your home become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
- Secure outdoor furniture and equipment: Patio sets, grills, and lawn equipment can cause significant damage when thrown by storm winds.
- Check your sump pump: Make sure it is functioning properly before heavy rains arrive.
Create a Storm Emergency Kit
Every Tennessee Valley household should have a storm kit ready to go. Include flashlights with extra batteries, a battery-powered weather radio, first aid supplies, important documents in a waterproof container, and at least three days of water and non-perishable food. Keep this kit in an easily accessible interior room on the lowest floor of your home.
Know Your Insurance Coverage Before the Storm
Review your homeowner's insurance policy now, not after a storm hits. Understand what is covered and what is not. Take photos or video of your home's exterior and interior to document its pre-storm condition. This documentation can be invaluable when filing a claim.
What to Do After Storm Damage
If your home sustains storm damage, safety comes first. Avoid downed power lines and standing water. Document all damage with photos before making any temporary repairs. Then call a trusted restoration company immediately. All States Restoration offers 24/7 emergency response throughout the Tennessee Valley, and our team can help with everything from emergency board-up services to full structural repairs and insurance claim assistance.
Do not wait for damage to worsen. Contact All States Restoration at the first sign of trouble, and we will help you get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.