El Nino Storms May Not be Over Yet: Prepare Your Home for Heavy Rains
This winter, record-breaking rainstorms have been commonplace in Southern California. The storms are mostly due to the ramp-up of the El Nino current, which has been fueling heavy rainfall across the entire southwest. The storms have been flooding streets, causing mudslides and damage to area homes. Though the rain has offered solutions to the four-year-long drought, it’s also been causing extensive damage in flood-prone areas. Experts Predict It’s Not Over Yet In addition to flood damage in areas of southern California and Arizona, El Nino may also be responsible for the unusual winter tornadoes that have been occurring in the southeast. Experts have noted the correlation between the strength of El Nino this winter and the higher than average tornado rates across Kansas, Mississippi, and Florida. Unfortunately, the worst may not be over. The National Weather Service is predicting that California will see a wetter than average spring this year. The Climate Prediction Center suggests that another big storm is on its way sometime in March. Preparing Your Home for Heavy Rains Though there is little you can do in the event of a flood, aside from getting to safety, there are a few ways to prepare for heavy rainfall: Make sure your roof is in good condition before the rains come. Look for signs of sagging, previous storm damage, and aging. If you notice any problems, don’t wait to get them fixed. Keeping your gutters clean is one of the most important aspects of protecting your roof. A clogged gutter will allow water to seep into the roofing system and walls of your home, eventually causing mold and compromising structural integrity. Clean your gutters regularly and add a wire mesh cap to keep leaves out of the downspout. Consider cutting down or trimming back overhanging trees. Heavy rains and strong winds can snap branches, downing power lines and causing damage to your roof. As Southern California residents brace for another surge of rain storms, stay safe and keep these tips in mind. Construction 911 provides emergency repair and rescue services. Contact us today for questions or help with...
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