| Potential Dangers of High Winds |
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| Environment - Environment |
| Written by Dan Netko |
| Saturday, 20 June 2009 09:10 |
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High winds can be a problem almost anywhere. Where wind is not blocked or stopped, such as across flat lands, high winds are very prevalent. Do not think lightly of high winds, they can cause lots of damage and can be very dangerous. Be aware and cautious of warnings dealing with high winds. Learning what to do during high winds can prevent accidents and damages.
High winds can be a problem almost anywhere. Where wind is not blocked or stopped, such as across flat lands, high winds are very prevalent. Do not think lightly of high winds, they can cause lots of damage and can be very dangerous. Be aware and cautious of warnings dealing with high winds. Learning what to do during high winds can prevent accidents and damages. Damages are caused by high winds mainly due to the things they pick up such as debris, tree branches, particles from buildings and structures, and many things lying around on the ground. As you can see, high winds do pose risks and hazards. As a storm is approaching high winds tend to occur, but high winds are also able to generate by themselves. Any time there is a 50% chance or higher of high winds occurring, a high wind watch will be issued by the National Weather Service. High wind warnings are issued by the NWS when high winds are almost certain to happen. During cold weather seasons high winds require additional warnings such as a wind chill warning. Spring and summer seasons are the most favorable for high winds but winds can be expected throughout all four. Most parts of the country will find that spring comes with more high winds than other seasons. No matter what season though, whenever high wind warnings are watches are in effect it is important to be cautious. Once a high wind warning or watch is in effect your first step should be to clean up your lawn and secure down anything that could blow around. Any trees should be checked for weak limbs or limbs already laying on the ground. Remember to bring in lawn furniture, trash cans, outdoor decorations, potted or hanging plants, or anything else the wind could pick up. Avoid going outside and stay away from windows if possible once high winds have begun. Winds are able to pick up objects, and a major cause of accidents is these objects hitting windows and breaking them. You should also try and stay off the road during warnings or watches. High winds have been known to easily blow vehicles around, sometimes into other cars or into ditches. Another problem winds cause drivers is reducing visibility. When high winds pick up dust, rain, or snow it can make seeing a problem. High winds are notorious for causing power outages. It is a common occurrence for trees to land on power lines or the power lines themselves be knocked over. Sometimes it may take a few days for cities to get all the power up again, so be prepared. Remember to have back up lighting and heat on hand, or have other steps already planned out. Make sure to check your property for damages after high winds pass. Do not put off fixing the damages the winds cause because if do, it could become a danger the next time winds move into your area again. Do not hesitate contacting your insurance agency either. Generally insurance policies cover damages caused by Acts of God, which includes high winds. About the Author: Dan Netko is the proud owner of Dan Netko Exteriors and has been offering service to people with Minnesota storm damage repairs for the last 30 years. If your house or business has endured high wind damage find out how Dan Netko Exteriors can save you money and headaches. |