Winter Storms Can Cause Extensive Damage

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Record Breaking Snow Storm Hits Omaha in 1997, Will it Happen in 2019?

Check out this years Farmer's Almanac! We have a very white, cold, winter ahead of us!

Winter storms can unleash an array of hazardous weather, causing destruction that sometimes amounts to billions of dollars in damage.

Some of the destructive impacts we can see in a given winter storm include: 

• Ice: The weight of freezing rain on trees and power lines can have a crippling impact. Damage can begin with a quarter inch of accumulation. There can be widespread destruction with power outages lasting for days with thick accumulations of a half inch or more.
• Wet Snow: Snow sticks easily to trees and power lines when it's moisture-laden. Much like ice accumulation, this adds extra weight and stress, increasing the chance of damage. This is particularly a threat in fall and early spring storms.
• Snow on Roofs: Accumulations of several feet from one or multiple storms can add stress to roofs, causing them to collapse.
• Coastal Flooding: On the East Coast, strong winds blowing onshore in combination with high tides can inundate the coastline, causing damage to structures and significant beach erosion.
• High Winds: When strong winds accompany accumulations of snow and ice it can add stress and enhance the potential for tree damage and power outages. Strong winds from winter storms can also trigger power outages and cause tree damage even in areas where there is no significant snow or ice.
• Flooding After the Snow: A sharp warm-up or heavy rain following a winter storm with an expansive snowpack can set the stage for major flooding.

HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR OMAHA HOME FROM WINTER STORM DAMAGE?

Protect the outside of your house by checking downspouts and making sure water will be diverted away from your house. Trim any low-hanging tree branches that can freeze, become brittle, snap and damage your house or power lines. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal drafty windows and doors. Disconnect garden hoses.