Cat 5 hurricanes are extremely serious events when they happen, but they are thankfully rare. In fact, there have only ever been four recorded hurricanes that have hit land of this level in the entire living history of the USA. These storms are intense and extremely dangerous, threatening life, infrastructure, and well-being every time one comes to pass.
The First Cat 5 Hurricane in Florida
The very first incident of a Cat 5 hurricane landed in Florida in 1935. Known as the Labor Day hurricane, its devastation was felt rippling through the state and it touched thousands of residents. There were over 400 fatalities as a result of the 185MPH winds and there were more than 40 miles of destruction recorded at the time.
The Most Recent Cat 5 Event
Florida did not see another extreme weather event that ranked as highly as a Cat 5 until late 2018 when Hurricane Michael came to pass. Wind speeds did not quite match the Labor Day hurricane event, but they were still catastrophic and registered at around 160MPH. There were at least eight deaths as a direct result of this storm and the devastation was felt all over the state. Hurricane Andrew, which occurred in 1992, was briefly registered as a Cat 5 when it first landed in Florida but was downgraded as it traveled across the state. This too caused intense levels of destruction and chaos.
What Makes a Cat 5 Hurricane?
There are five different categories when it comes to ranking hurricane severity. Cat 5 is the most serious, and Cat 1 is the least serious, but still a significant weather event under any circumstances. To rank as a Cat 5, the wind must be registered at over 157 MPH. This reach causes untold destruction and is extremely dangerous to human life. It can tear down buildings and disrupt basic infrastructure systems like electricity, internet connections, gas mains, and more.
Why Is Florida Vulnerable to Hurricanes?
Though there have only been a handful of the highest-ranking hurricanes, Florida has experienced more than its fair share of less serious weather events of this nature as well. There have been over one hundred recorded incidents since official records began back in the 1800s, and each one of them has brought unique consequences and turmoil to the state and its residents. While Floridians may be well versed in hurricanes, it doesn’t make dealing with this type of event any easier should it come to pass. So, what makes this state so vulnerable?
Location
The simple, most straightforward answer is because of its location. Florida is situated in the Gulf of Mexico, close to the Caribbean. It has a warm climate and ocean and sees action from the heat-intensive African winds as well. All of this adds up to the perfect conditions for hurricanes to form over the Atlantic and make their way inland.
The Coastline
The size of Florida’s coastline means it is an easy target for hurricanes to land. There are two clear points of entry for the winds to gain momentum including the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic, both of which cover over 1,000 miles in terms of coastline up and down the state.
How to Prepare for a Hurricane Event
If you live in Florida state, you will be no stranger to hurricane preparation. There are smart moves, but doing anything is better than just standing around and waiting for a weather event to hit. A lack of preparation increases the chance of property damage, injury, and even loss of life. So, it makes sense to dive into the process with open arms and get your life ready for the worst just in case. Cat 5 hurricanes are amongst the rarest in the world, but Florida has seen most of them come and go right on their doorstep.
Have a Hurricane Plan
The best thing you can do is have some kind of plan in place for when a hurricane warning is announced. There are dedicated channels for this type of thing, and these should always be watched closely just in case something sinister is coming. A plan should include what you are going to do when the warning is cast and how you will prepare your house if you opt to stay put until the storm passes.
Evacuation Measures
Get to know where the nearest official shelter is and make sure you know how you would get there with enough provisions in a serious weather event. Take precautionary measures to plan for flash flooding, because it is easier than you may realize to get trapped inland by flood water.
Prepare Provisions
It is also wise to have a stash of provisions in case of a storm. This should always include batteries, water, first aid, flashlights, portable chargers, extra clothing, non-perishable food items, sleeping equipment, and spare fuel to cover all the bases. Some people choose to take this further and invest in things like a generator and gas-powered cooking equipment for if (or when) the power goes out.
Take Care of Your House
It is impossible to lift your house up and move it away from the hurricane, so you have to get it ready instead. This includes putting shutters or similar on all of your windows, tying down any garden equipment, and securing the parameters wherever possible. Any tall trees in close proximity should be tended to, and it is wise to invest in a protective cover for your vehicle as well. Make sure any safe room you have built is fully equipped and in a safe enough location too.
How Common Are Cat 5 Hurricanes in Florida?
Thankfully, not very. However, Florida is the state most at risk of this kind of weather event, so it is best to be prepared at all times.
Storm Damage is the expert when it comes to all things hurricanes. We understand the devastation such an event can cause to homes and lives, and the team is here to help. Find our contact information below and get in touch if you need further legal input.
Visit our office here, 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Wind damage can wreak havoc on properties and has caused untold destruction time and time again in Florida state. Given that this area is prone to hurricanes because of its shape and location, there are often strong winds moving in from both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean that threaten the infrastructure and domestic homes everywhere. Here’s a list of the four most vulnerable areas that are susceptible to heavy damages as a result of strong winds.
Windows
The number one feature on this list is windows. Windows are easy enough to protect with shutters and reinforced protective barriers, but that doesn’t mean they won’t still see a lot of damage. It is difficult to tell exactly what the wind will bring when it arrives, but one thing is for certain: glass panes are highly vulnerable. Whether it is from flying debris, sheer force, or a fallen tree, they are the most likely things to break and shatter.
Roof Areas
Up next is the roof area of your property. The wind is capable of removing tiles and causing chaos to the building work underneath. When a roof is damaged in strong weather events, it can lead to leaks, personal injury, and structural problems as well.
Doors
Doors are also highly likely to become victims during hurricanes or other types of storms that bring intense winds along for the ride. Anyone with a double-entry door is susceptible to seeing an intense amount of breakage because of how the mechanism is set up. These kinds of doors tend to have glass panes in them, which is an additional complication to factor in.
The Garage
Finally, if you have a garage on the property, this is a structure that is likely to see some kind of devastation during a weather event such as this. It’s not just the windows, doors, and roofs of these buildings that might become broken or removed, but the walls and assets inside as well.
What to Do If Your Property Is Damaged
The best step to take is to file a claim with your insurance company, and Storm Damage attorneys can provide support with this. Having a legal professional on your team when discussing matters with an insurance company is beneficial. It means you will get to know the right things to say and how to represent the facts of the claim more clearly.
Never underestimate the power of wind when it comes to property damage. There are lots of preventative measures you can put in place, but ultimately the weather does as nature intends. Your home may be in a state of disrepair but don’t hesitate to take action.
Storm Damage attorneys have represented hundreds of clients with cases like yours. We know what needs to be said, which evidence to represent, and how to get the desired results in every case that is brought to us. Don’t delay making contact, it will be a smart move.
Visit our office here: 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Once you have experienced a storm or two, you understand exactly why the windows of your house or place of business are vulnerable during these extreme times. Hurricanes and thunderstorms are always a risk, but you can take steps to protect the windows to mitigate the potential damages. There may still be small repairs to make, but these will be far less than what could happen if you don’t take action now. This guide explores what you need to do, and how to get it done.
Install Shutters
Shutter installation is one of the best methods for preventing and controlling damage when a storm decides to come along. Some of the top of the range options are on the expensive side, though the investment is arguably worth making if it means you will have fewer costs down the line. The purpose of shutters is to create a structurally sound barrier between the weather event and your glass. They are highly protective and designed to withstand heavy battering. Shutters are often made from durable materials like steel and aluminum and are installed over the window. You can pick a style, for instance, a roll-down shutter, and even the color too.
Try Plywood
If you are not convinced by shutters and want something less aesthetically invasive, then plywood is the ideal solution. It is cost-effective and has fairly protective elements to it. Plywood is more of a single-use product and will provide a decent amount of barrier for your windows when bad weather comes calling. They can be drilled into the frame or slotted into place when the time is right, and removed once the storm has passed.
Change Your Glass Panes
So many homes and businesses in America still have single pane glass. Yet, when it comes to areas with high storm frequency, these are extremely ineffective. Single pane glass is the weakest around and will shatter fairly easily when faced with strong winds or flying debris. Instead, consider upgrading the glass to double or triple glazing. This can be taken even further with an investment in high impact window styles, which are built to withstand extreme hits and are a particularly useful asset when it comes to fighting the elements. Also known as tempered glass, it is over three times as strong as regular windows!
Have Some Storm Panels in Storage
If you don’t quite have the budget for tempered glass or aluminum shutters, then you must instead find some storm panels to keep in storage. These are strong pieces of wood that you bring out whenever a storm warning hits. They should be installed professionally for maximum impact and are typically slid into the window frame either internally, externally, or both. Made from strong polycarbonate materials, they will serve as a barrier between the weather and your glass.
Specific Fabric for Hurricanes
There is a new arrival to the hurricane protection market known as hurricane fabric. This material was created specifically to counteract the effects of extreme winds and rains and keep windows safe beneath it. They are lightweight, non-invasive, and typically easy to set up in any home regardless of the style or shape of your glass. So, if you have a senior relative or you know somebody who lives in an isolated area without much help in sight, these are great options to put forward. They can be lifted with ease and put into place without too much effort at all. This makes them a solid option when it comes to storm safety. They are becoming a highly popular option for larger buildings with more glass to cover.
Window Film
Another budget-friendly option is window film. The main goal is to prevent the glass from completely shattering and therefore causing, not only damage to the window, but your home and family too. It is fitted outside of the window and secured into place and has proven effective time and time again for decades. Even if the glass does break, it won’t go far, and the pane can be easily taken out and disposed of safely once the strong winds have subsided.
Why Is It Important to Protect Windows?
The biggest reason why windows need protection is because they are made of glass. When glass breaks, it can fly in multiple directions and cause untold damage. If a person is cut, or hit by a broken windowpane circulating during a hurricane, they are more likely to suffer a catastrophic injury or even death. There are so many dangers associated with unprotected windows that it has even become an integral part of insurance policies for building owners to consider. It makes sense to protect the panes of a house or office because they are the most at risk and highly exposed, with the potential to cause big damages and other consequences too.
Be Ready
Taking action is the only way to go. There are lots of options listed in the guide above, and many of them would suit a lower budget too. The price will depend on how many windows your property has and what type of glass is installed.
Storm damage is one of those things that is outside of our control. It happens whether we want it to or not, but there are still things you can do to prepare for the worst circumstances. Your property is an asset, but it is also your home, and it deserves some attention so that it has the best possible chance of staying strong and standing during extreme weather events. If you have suffered as a result of a storm, get in touch and see how we can help you with everything that comes next.
The dedicated team at Storm Damage understands the emotional and financial toll a storm can have on your life. We are committed to helping victims find the best way forward so that they can get on with their lives in the best way possible. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment or call us for a conversation.
Find our office at 200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801.
Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.
Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home’s structure. It shields you from the elements and keeps you safe and comfortable. However, during severe storms, your roof can be subjected to significant damage from strong winds, heavy rain, hail, or falling debris. To avoid costly repairs and ensure the longevity of your roof, it’s essential to take proactive measures to protect it from storm damage. In this guide, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and insights on how to safeguard your roof and keep it in top condition.
Regular Roof Inspections
Performing regular roof inspections is crucial for identifying and addressing potential issues before they become major problems. While you can conduct a visual inspection yourself, it’s advisable to hire a professional roofing contractor who has the expertise to spot even the smallest signs of damage. A comprehensive inspection should include checking for loose or damaged shingles, cracks, leaks, and signs of wear and tear. By identifying and fixing these issues early on, you can prevent them from escalating into more severe problems during storms.
Reinforce Your Roof
If you live in an area prone to storms, reinforcing your roof is an excellent proactive measure. Consider using impact-resistant roofing materials that are specifically designed to withstand high winds, hail, and falling debris. These materials, such as impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing, provide an extra layer of protection and can significantly reduce the risk of storm damage. Plus, reinforcing your roof’s structure with bracing techniques can enhance its durability and stability.
Trim Overhanging Trees
During storms, strong winds can cause tree branches to break and fall onto your roof, causing extensive damage. To minimize this risk, make sure to trim overhanging tree limbs regularly. By keeping trees well-maintained and trimmed away from your roof, you can reduce the chance of branches damaging your roof or puncturing shingles during storms. If you are uncertain about the proper way to trim trees near your home, consult with a professional arborist or tree service.
Secure Loose Objects
Strong winds during storms can turn loose objects into dangerous projectiles that can cause severe damage to your roof. Take the time to secure or store any loose items in your yard or on your roof, such as patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and toys. Anchor larger items to the ground, like sheds or playsets, to prevent them from being blown away or into your roof. By securing these objects, you minimize the risk of them being tossed around by strong winds and potentially causing harm to your roof or other parts of your property.
Clean and Maintain Gutters
Maintaining clean and functional gutters is essential for proper water drainage from your roof. Clogged gutters can lead to water buildup, which can seep under your roof shingles and cause leaks and water damage. Before stormy seasons, ensure that your gutters are free from debris, such as leaves, twigs, or dirt. Regularly inspect and clean your gutters and consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris from accumulating. Properly functioning gutters will help redirect water away from your roof, reducing the risk of water damage during storms.
Install Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
While it may seem unrelated to your roof’s protection, installing impact-resistant windows and doors can actually play a significant role in safeguarding your entire home during storms. These specially designed windows and doors are built to withstand strong winds and flying debris, reducing the risk of breakage and structural damage. By preventing the entry of wind and rain through broken windows or doors, you minimize the chances of roof damage caused by interior pressure changes during storms.
Reinforce Roof Anchors and Connections
Roof anchors and connections are critical for the stability and integrity of your roof. During storms, high winds can exert significant pressure on your roof, potentially causing it to lift or detach. To prevent this, consider reinforcing the roof anchors and connections. Consult with a professional roofing contractor who can assess your roof’s current anchors and connections and recommend suitable reinforcements. By strengthening these vital elements, you enhance your roof’s ability to withstand strong winds and reduce the risk of storm damage.
Lighting Protection System
During thunderstorms, lightning strikes can pose a significant risk to your roof and overall home safety. Installing a lighting protection system can help mitigate the potential damage caused by lightning strikes. This system consists of lightning rods, conductors, and grounding equipment that are strategically placed on your roof and connected to the ground. When lightning strikes, the system safely channels the electrical energy away from your roof and directs it into the ground, reducing the risk of fire or structural damage. Consulting with a professional electrician or lighting protection specialist can help you determine the most appropriate system for your home.
Invest in Roof Insurance Coverage
No matter how well you prepare and protect your roof, it’s always wise to have insurance coverage that includes storm damage. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy and ensure that it adequately covers roof repairs or replacement due to storm related incidents. If necessary, consider upgrading your policy to include comprehensive roof coverage. Having the right insurance provides you with peace of mind, knowing that you are financially protected in the event of severe storm damage to your roof.
When it comes to protecting your property from storm damage, or if you’ve already experienced damage to your roof, you need a team of experts on your site. At Storm Damage, we are a trusted group of attorneys, claims consultants, and contractors with over thirty years of experience in dealing with the aftermath of severe weather events. Our dedicated professionals understand the complexities of insurance claims and the intricacies of repairing and restoring storm-damaged properties.
Don’t navigate the challenges of storm damage alone. Our team is here to provide you with the knowledge, support, and expertise you need to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.
Contact us today at:
200 Lake Morton Drive, Suite 300, Lakeland, FL 33801 Call us today for a free consultation on (833) 941-7867.