Severe Weather Safety: High Winds & Fast-Moving Storms

Axel S�rensen

4 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

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Understanding High Wind Risks

High winds associated with severe thunderstorms, derechos, hurricanes, and tornadoes can cause widespread devastation. Knowing the types of high-wind threats in your area is the first step towards effective storm safety.

Identifying High-Wind Threats

Various weather phenomena produce dangerous high winds. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective weather preparedness.

• Thunderstorms: These can produce damaging winds exceeding 58 mph (93 km/h), often accompanied by heavy rain, hail, and lightning.
• Derechos: These are widespread, long-lived wind storms associated with a band of rapidly moving thunderstorms. They can bring damaging winds over hundreds of miles.
• Hurricanes: These powerful storms bring sustained high winds, torrential rain, and storm surge, posing significant threats to coastal areas. Wind speeds are categorized on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
• Tornadoes: While known for their intense rotation, tornadoes also pack incredibly destructive winds that can reach over 300 mph (480 km/h).

The Beaufort wind scale is a way to classify wind speed based on observed effects. Higher numbers on the scale indicate increasingly dangerous wind speeds.

• Examples of High Wind Events and Associated Dangers:

  • Microbursts: Sudden, localized downdrafts of air that can cause extremely damaging, straight-line winds.
  • Downbursts: Similar to microbursts but larger in scale.
  • Hail: Large hail can damage property and cause injuries.
  • Flying debris: High winds can lift and propel objects into the air, causing significant damage and injuries.

• Geographical Areas Prone to Specific High-Wind Events:

  • Tornado Alley (Central US): High risk for tornadoes.
  • Coastal regions: Vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms.
  • Great Plains: Prone to derechos.

Assessing Your Risk

Your personal risk depends on several factors. Location, housing type, and individual vulnerabilities all play a role.

• Checklist for Evaluating Home Preparedness for High Winds:

  • Secure loose objects (patio furniture, garbage cans, etc.).
  • Trim trees and shrubs near your home.
  • Reinforce or replace weak roofing or siding.
  • Bring in outdoor decorations and items that could become airborne.
  • Check for and repair any structural weaknesses in your home.

• Importance of a Family Emergency Plan:

  • Designate a safe room or shelter.
  • Establish communication protocols.
  • Determine evacuation routes.
  • Identify an out-of-area contact person.

Staying Safe During Fast-Moving Storms

Knowing what to do when a high-wind warning is issued is critical for storm safety.

Immediate Actions During a Storm

When a severe weather warning is issued, take immediate action.

• Seek Shelter Immediately: Move to a sturdy interior room on the lowest level of your home, ideally a basement or interior closet. Stay away from windows.
• Protect Yourself from Flying Debris: Use sturdy materials like mattresses or blankets to protect yourself from flying debris. Avoid windows at all costs.
• Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates through a NOAA weather radio, TV, or a reliable weather app.

Post-Storm Safety

After the storm, prioritize safety.

• Safely Inspect Your Property: Check for structural damage, downed power lines, and gas leaks. Do not enter damaged areas until they have been deemed safe.
• Dangers of Floodwaters and Downed Power Lines: Avoid contact with floodwaters (they may be electrically charged) and downed power lines.
• Report Damage: Contact your local authorities to report damage and request assistance if needed.

Preparing for High Winds and Fast-Moving Storms

Proactive preparation is key to effective wind safety and severe thunderstorm safety.

Building an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is vital for weather preparedness.

• Essential Items:

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
  • Non-perishable food
  • First-aid kit
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • NOAA weather radio
  • Manual can opener
  • Whistle
  • Dust mask
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • Local maps

• Storing Emergency Supplies: Store supplies in a cool, dry place and regularly check expiration dates.

Developing a Family Communication Plan

A communication plan is critical for tornado safety and hurricane safety.

• Designated Meeting Place: Choose a readily identifiable location outside your home.
• Contact Information: Ensure everyone has updated contact information for all family members.
• Staying Connected During a Power Outage: Designate an out-of-area contact person who family members can call to check in.

Conclusion

Staying safe during severe weather with high winds and fast-moving storms requires preparation and awareness. By understanding the risks, taking proactive steps to prepare your home and family, and knowing what to do during and after a storm, you can significantly reduce your risk. Remember to regularly review your severe weather safety plan and ensure your emergency kit is fully stocked. Don't wait until the next high wind warning or fast-moving storm – start planning your severe weather safety strategy today! Learn more about effective severe weather safety practices and ensure you and your family are well-prepared.