When hurricanes, tropical storms, or floods hit, they can severely affect your property. While you cannot control the weather, there are some measures you can take to protect your roof during a hurricane and reduce storm flood damage.
Tropical storms and hurricanes are both types of tropical cyclones, at different intensities. A hurricane is more intense than a tropical storm, usually accompanied by high winds and thunderstorms. Let’s learn more about tropical storm damage and does a homeowner’s insurance policy cover hurricane damage damage.
How Hurricanes Can Damage Your Property
There are several hazards a hurricane can cause in New York and you have to be aware of all of them to minimize the hurricane damage to residential property:
- High winds: Tropical-force winds and especially hurricane-force winds can cause trees to fall or damage the structure of buildings.
- Heavy rainfall leading to flooding: Torrential rains during a hurricane are very likely to cause destructive floods. Flash flooding is especially dangerous, as it can cause a rapid rise in water level, taking people by surprise.
- Storm surge and storm tide: When it comes to coastal locations such as Long Island and the southern part of New York, storm surges produced by hurricanes can severely affect your property and life. A Storm surge is the unusual rise of water caused by high winds during a storm. It can rise to 20 feet and span hundreds of miles along the coast. Similarly, a storm tide occurs when the storm surge and astronomical tide cause a dangerous rise in the water level.
- Tornadoes: Tropical storms and hurricanes can produce tornadoes. Although they are usually weak, tornadoes can still damage your roof and pose a significant life threat.
Does My Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Hurricanes And Tropical Storms?
Most homeowners’ insurance covers hurricane damage. However, be aware that they typically do not cover flooding. You would need a separate policy for flood coverage.
As the damage done by hurricanes and tropical storms is similar, they usually are both covered under the policy. While hurricanes produce more intense winds, a tropical storm can cause severe damage to your property as well.
If you have any questions about your insurance or would like to get coverage for hurricane and/or flood damage, you will need to talk to your insurance agent or broker.
What To Do After A Tropical Storm or Hurricane
Once the tropical storm or hurricane is over, if you notice any sign of flooding, roof leak, or fallen tree on your property, you will need the help of a professional storm damage restoration company.
While you wait for the water damage restoration professionals, it is best to follow these safety rules:
- Stay away from the flooded areas
- Wash your hands thoroughly if you have been in contact with floodwater. Use soap, alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer to remove the germs, dangerous chemicals, and other contaminants that are usually present in floodwater.
- Do not use any electrical devices. If you can safely reach that area, turn off the main power supply.
- Stay away from damaged buildings, as they might collapse.
iFlooded Restoration has 30 years of experience in the restoration industry and has a long track of dealing with storm damage. We will remove the debris and start the water damage restoration process immediately. Our technicians use advanced equipment to dry your property in a timely manner in order to avoid further damage.
We use our extensive knowledge, experience, and equipment to bring your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Our Emergency Team is available 24/7 to assist you with any type of water damage that might accompany a hurricane or tropical storm.
FAQs
What is the damage caused by tropical storms?
Tropical storms can cause extensive damage to both natural and human-made environments. They often bring high winds and rainfall, which can shatter windows and lead to flooding, resulting in extensive damage. Lost income, extensive repairs, and ruined environments are all impacted by tropical storms.
How much damage can tropical storm winds cause?
It depends on wind speed, as tropical storms can cause speeds of between 39 and 73 miles per hour. The higher the speed, the more damage it will cause, but even minor tropical storms can rip shingles off roofing and damage windows.
Is a tropical storm worse than a hurricane?
Hurricanes are often more severe because they have higher winds exceeding 74 mph. These winds can cause extensive damage to buildings, while tropical storms are often milder. However, they can still be dangerous – especially when accompanied by flooding.
What are the three main effects of a tropical storm?
- Strong Winds: These winds can cause severe damage to buildings, cars, infrastructure, and vegetation.
- Heavy Rain: Flooding can impact homes and the environment and cause sewage backups requiring intensive repairs.
- Storm Surges: Tropical storms can also cause sea levels to rise, damaging coastal properties and eroding beaches.
