Homeowners Forget About Fire Danger During Monsoon Storms

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

When monsoon season rolls around, homeowners are quick to prepare for high winds and torrential rains, possibly even damaging dust storms, but few think about the fire danger that comes with the monsoon season. Lightning is very prevalent during monsoons and lightning strikes are not uncommon. Learn more about the threat of fire damage during monsoon season.

Monsoons bring lightning and the threat of fire

Lightning is the most underrated weather hazard during monsoons. Lightning makes every single thunderstorm a potential killer, whether the storm produces one single bolt or ten thousand bolts. A roof can catch on fire after a single strike, or a nearby tree or pole can be struck and come toppling down on a home. Unlike other weather hazards, lightning can also be unpredictable.

Staying protected during a lightning storm

There are actions you can take to keep yourself and your home protected:

• Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm and listen to local news when a storm is near
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning
• Get inside a house, large shelter, or an all-metal vehicle during a lightning storm.
• If safe shelter is not available, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles
• If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land, and find shelter immediately
• Only use the telephone in an emergency (cell phones are safe to use).
• Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles.
• Stay away from wire fences, clotheslines, or metal pipes and rails.
• Make sure trees near your home are adequately trimmed so any struck branch won’t cause damage to your home or roof
• Don’t use electronics of any kind during a storm
• Make sure electronics are plugged into surge protectors

What to do if you experience fire damage from monsoon lighting

Even with the best protection and precautions, your home may still experience fire damage from a lightning strike, whether it be to your home, roof, or nearby tree or pole. If you experience fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix after the flames are extinguished. Our fire remediation specialists know how to address fire damage and can provide the remediation you need to recover from the damage.

Contact SERVPRO of Central Phoenix 24/7 at 602-386-4268 to get the help you need.