Prepare Now for Spring Severe Weather

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service, March marks the start of the spring severe weather season.

Date published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reveals that severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more devastating. NOAA reports that the period from 1981-2021 saw an annual average of 7.4-billion-dollar weather and climate events (adjusted to today’s costs). When they looked at only the five most recent years (2017-2021), the annual average grew to 17.2 events. Last year alone (2021) delivered 20 “billion-dollar” weather or climate events.

Whenever you have warm, moist air colliding with cool, dry air, you have the conditions for creating a thunderstorm, along with the possibility of lightning strikes, flood, hail, high winds, rip currents, and even wildfires and tornadoes. The problem is, you can’t prevent these severe weather events and you can’t predict very far in advance when and where they will hit. The only sensible approach is to take steps in advance to protect your family and property.

We urge area home and business owners to check out state and federal resources online for tips on planning and preparing for a severe weather emergency now, as the spring severe weather season arrives. One such resource is the National Center for Environmental Health of The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which offers suggestions for creating an emergency kit and preparing family members for severe weather emergencies at https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/springweather/index.html

Each year SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals respond to scenes of weather-related mayhem, helping families and business owners recover from flooding, fire, wind damage and more.

Fire Safety during Winter Storms

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Know what to do before, during and after a winter storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire.

• Test all smoke alarms.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms and test them as well.
• Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home
• Make sure your house number can be seen from the street.
• Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Never use candles.
• Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online.
• Check on neighbors.
• Stay away from downed wires. Report any downed wires to authorities.
• Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room.

Winter Storm this Wednesday- Thursday 2/16/22-2/17/22

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Weather sources are stating a potential winter storm for Thursday and stating potential for a wintry mix Wednesday prior to the changeover to snow.

What is certain: There will be rain Wednesday. A strong cold front will move in changing rain to all snow. We will get measurable snow anywhere from 2 to 9 inches.

What is uncertain: When the rain will change over to snow. If there will be a wintry mix. How much sleet and snow. A longer period of wintry mix will increase the ice totals and decrease the snow totals. And if this will turn out to be a winter storm (6+ inches).

One of the major factors in the storm development is still uncertain. Thus, half the models show a lighter snow event. The other half show a heavy snow event.

It’s simply still too early to tell many details yet for when the switch will happen, and how much. Expect the potential for ice, and anywhere between 2 and 9 inches of snow. Keep watch and just be prepared for winter weather.

Winter Driving

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

The cold month of January brings a range of added risks, and winter driving is one of the areas where accidents can easily happen. Preparedness is key, and it is important to ensure that you have the right tools to tackle driving in the winter.

The three P’s of safe winter driving are Prepare, Protect and Prevent.

Get your vehicle ready for cold weather use:

-Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level.

-Check your tires’ tread or replace tires with all-weather or snow tires.

-Keep the gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.

-Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.

Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded:

• Blankets, gloves and a hat
• Water and snacks
• Emergency flares
• Jumper cables and a tow chain
• A flashlight and batteries
• A snow brush, ice scraper and shovel
• An emergency cell phone or radio
• Sand or cat litter

Do This When You Plan to Travel

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

When planning travel, be aware of current and forecast weather conditions.

Avoid traveling when the National Weather Service has issued advisories.

If you must travel, inform a friend or relative of your proposed route and expected time of arrival.

Follow these safety rules if you become stranded in your vehicle:

• Make your vehicle visible to rescuers. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna, raise the hood (if it is not snowing), and turn on the inside overhead lights (when your engine is running).
• Move anything you need from the trunk into passenger area. Stay with your vehicle unless safety is no more than 100 yards away.
• Keep your body warm. Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers.
• Stay awake and stay moving. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems. As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve circulation and stay warmer.
• Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe – this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Derecho Storm

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

A derecho is a rare storm but here in the Midwest, we are the most susceptible to them. They most often occur April through August but they can develop into the Fall months.

Derechos are fast-moving bands of thunderstorms with dangerous winds. They are different from tornadoes because their winds often move in straight lines rather than spiraling. However, they can cause hurricane and tornado like winds, actual tornadoes, heavy rains, and flash floods.

About a year ago, a derecho hit Iowa where speeds of up to 126 mph were recorded. The storm not only destroyed homes and businesses but also took out a significant number of crops. It was absolute devastation to the state of Iowa. SERVPROs from around the area rallied to help Iowa during their disaster. We not only look out for our immediate community but any community that is need of help!

Last Weekend's Storm

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

This tree was uprooted in a yard in Perry, MO.

This past weekend’s storm ravaged our surrounding areas. Perry received the brunt of Friday night’s storm where 90 miles per hour winds were estimated. Other communities around Mark Twain Lake also saw significant damage. Roofs were missing, trees uprooted, and sheds tossed into neighbor’s yards.

First and foremost, we are so thankful that no one was seriously injured during this past weekend’s storm. We are also grateful to the linemen that worked around the clock to help restore power to Perry.

SERVPRO of Hannibal started receiving calls early Saturday morning. We called in all of our production technicians to send that way to start helping with the clean up. Our crews worked all day Saturday and Sunday extracting water from homes. If you suffer damage from a storm event then you can trust that our heroes will be there day and night to help!

Severe Weather Tips

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

If severe weather is forecast for your area then prepare ahead of time. Start by having an emergency supply kit for your family and pets including food, water, batteries, flashlights, battery operated radio, medications, first aid kit, and a communication device like a phone or walkie talkie.

Keep important documents in a plastic bag so they stay dry.

The day severe weather is forecast, try to keep all your devices charged just in case you end up losing power.

If you live in a mobile home then get out. You are safer in your vehicle than in a mobile home. Make plans ahead of time to stay with someone who lives in a non-mobile home. If that is not an option then you can go to a library or a police or fire station.

What to Do in a Winter Power Outage

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Hannibal and the surrounding areas are facing extreme winter weather like we have not seen for some time. Here are some tips in case your home loses power:

• Stay home and indoors is the safest thing you can do during a winter power outage. Staying off the roads if you can is also recommended.
• Make sure you have an emergency stock of supplies.
  • At least a 3-day supply of food and water for each person in your home
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Battery-powered radio
  • First aid supplies
  • Blankets
• Stay warm by wearing extra layers including hats, gloves, and face masks. Keep warm with extra blankets, winter coats, and sleeping bags.
• Know the signs of hypothermia: confusion, difficult speaking, shivering, sleepiness, and stiff muscles.

Conserve power if you still have it by keeping your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower. During the day, open your blinds if it is sunny so the sun can help heat your home. Just make sure to close them when the sun goes down to prevent losing heat.

Don’t forget about your pets! If they are outdoor pets then make sure to move them inside (no matter the thickness of their fur).  Pets can get hypothermia too.

Protecting your Pets during Severe Winter Weather

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

This is our Marketing Rep's dog, Mollie!

Do not forget about your pets in the event of extreme winter weather. Here are some suggestions for protecting your indoor and outdoor pets during harsh winter conditions:

• Cats should be kept inside at all times and dogs should only be let out to relieve themselves.
• If you must walk your dog then try putting on Vaseline or doggie boots on their paws to protect them from salt and chemicals. Be sure to wipe off the Vaseline when you get back inside.
• Check for ice and salt and remove from your pet’s paws and fur immediately.
• Check your pet for frostbite, especially on paws and ears.
• Make sure your pet’s water is never frozen.
• Knock on the hood of your car before starting it to make sure no cats have climbed into the engine compartments seeking warmth.

Pets can get hypothermia too! The symptoms include a weak pulse, dilated pupils, decreased heart rate, extreme shivering, and stupor. Call a vet immediately if you suspect your pet is experiencing hypothermia.

Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Winterize your home to help protect yourself and your family from any potential damage the cold temperatures and snow may bring.

Follow these tips to keep your home safe and warm:

• Check your heating systems.
• Clean out chimneys and fireplaces.
• Closely monitor any burning fires or candles.
• Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
• Remove ice and snow from walkways to prevent slips and falls.
• Keep an emergency kit in your home that includes flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, extra medicine, and baby items.
• Your kit should also include food and water for three days for each family member (including pets), warm clothing and blankets if you must evacuate, and toys and games for children.

If you have any questions about preparing your home for the winter then call SERVPRO of Hannibal! 573-231-0056

Driving Winter Safety Tips

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

Drive Safely

• Avoid using cruise control in wintry conditions.
• Steer in the direction of a skid so when your wheels regain traction, you don’t have to overcorrect to stay in your lane.
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly.
• If possible, don’t stop when going uphill.

If visibility is severely limited due to a whiteout, pull off the road to a safe place and do not drive until conditions improve. Avoid pulling off onto the shoulder unless it is an absolute emergency. Limited visibility means other vehicles can’t see yours on the shoulder.

Prepare Your Car

• Check your tires air pressure. Replace them with all-weather or snow tires if necessary.
• Keep your gas tank full.
• Use wintertime fluid in your windshield washer.
• Make an emergency kit.

Have a Fully Charged Phone

• Have a car charger.
• Have a portable battery charger.

Hurricane Season!

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

We know that hurricanes do not pose a direct threat to us here in Missouri but SERVPRO of Hannibal likes to keep everyone prepared in case you are traveling. 

Hurricane season has already begun and several named storms have developed in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. For the Atlantic, the season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. On average, there are 12 tropical storms that develop, with an average of six becoming hurricanes, according to the National Weather Service.

Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property damage. The National Weather Service lists the following as potential hurricane hazards: storm surge, flooding, winds, tornadoes, and dangerous waves. We will explain these in depth in a later blog. 

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property and take steps to protect your home or business. For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters, contact SERVPRO of Hannibal at 573-231-0056.

Hurricane Hazards

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Globally, September is the most active month for hurricanes. The following are potential hurricane hazards as listed by the National Weather Service: Storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm's winds. This hazard is historically the leading cause of hurricane related deaths in the United States. Storm surge and large battering waves can result in large loss of life and cause massive destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers and estuaries. Flooding from heavy rains is the second leading cause of fatalities from landfalling tropical cyclones. Widespread torrential rains associated with these storms often cause flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated. Winds from a hurricane can destroy buildings and manufactured homes. Signs, roofing material and other items left outside can become flying missiles during hurricanes.  Tornadoes can accompany landfalling tropical cyclones. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm.  Dangerous waves produced by a tropical cyclone's strong winds can pose a significant hazard to coastal residents and mariners. These waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion and damage to structures along the coastline, even when the storm is more than 1,000 miles offshore.  Stay tuned for our next blog explaining our crew joining the Storm Team in Florida to help out with the Hurricane Sally aftermath.

Hurricane Sally

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Shadowlynne, Doris, and Lisa are part of the Storm Team heading to Florida.

Part of our team is heading South today to join the Storm Team in Florida to help with the aftermath of Hurricane Sally. SERVPRO of Hannibal not only helps local communities but we also help any community at large after a natural disaster devastates them.  Hurricane Sally has dumped "4 months of rain in 4 hours" in parts of Florida according to officials. There is a flash flood emergency and a half million people have no power. Our crew took three vehicles packed with equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers. They will be taking calls from local people in the area who have suffered from water damage from flooding.  Our team of professionals will be in Florida for as long as it takes to help people get back to a sense of normalcy. They are planning to work day and night to make it "Like it never even happened." If you would like to learn more about our Storm Team then give SERVPRO of Hannibal a call at 573-231-0056.

Storm Team STL

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Do you know about our Storm Team?

A couple weeks ago, the St. Louis area suffered from a devastating microburst storm. This storm dumped inches of rain in just a couple of hours and came with very strong winds. Storm drain and sewer drain systems backed up turning some streets into rivers of water. This strong storm also flooded basements that usually never have issues with water.

The SERVPRO system was loaded with hundreds of calls in the area for help. When an area is hit with so many calls in one hour then that service area goes into what we call “Storm Mode.” The STL SERVPROs were overwhelmed and asked for help from other franchises. SERVPRO of Hannibal stepped up to the plate and we sent a team down to help our SERVPRO friends as well as residents and business owners of St. Louis.

Some of our girls were down there for a week and a half straight working 12-15 hour days to help with all of the damage. They worked hard to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you are ever faced with a storm crisis then you can count on SERVPRO of Hannibal to be there!

Flood Tips

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Spring is here! Although the temperatures are getting nicer, we have to deal with storms that bring on flooding. Here are some flood tips to keep you and your family safe:

• Never walk, swim, drive, or play in flood water. You may not be able to see how fast the flood water is moving or see holes or submerged debris.
• Beware of low spots, such as underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements.
• Remember that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
• Beware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly.

 When Driving in Flood Conditions:

• If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
• Do not drive around a barricade.
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling; a foot of water will float many vehicles.

Winter Storms

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

We actively watch the weather here at SERVPRO of Hannibal. As we enter the winter storm season, here are some reminders and tips.

Watches, Warnings, and Advisories

• Winter Storm Watch: Be alert, a storm is likely.
• Winter Storm Warning: Take action, the storm is in or entering the area.
• Winter Weather Advisory: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists.
• Frost/Freeze Warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause damage to plants, crops, or fruit trees.
• Blizzard Warning: Snow and strong winds combined will produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill – seek refuge immediately.

Indoor Safety

• Seal drafts from doors and windows.
• Leave all water taps slightly open so they drip continuously.
• Close off unused rooms
• Listen to your radio, television, or NOAA Weather Radio for weather reports and emergency information.

Outdoor Safety

• Find or build a shelter as protection from the wind.
• Cover all exposed body parts.
• Build a fire with rocks around it to absorb and reflect heat and to attract attention.
• Melt snow for drinking water to avoid dehydration.
• Avoid overexertion.
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extremely cold air.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Avoid walking on ice

Car Safety during Winter Weather

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you must travel during winter storms then please keep these tips in mind if you become stuck somewhere.

If you are trapped in your car:

• Do not leave the car to look for help unless it is visible within 100 yards.
• Display a “call for help” sign, raise the car hood, or hand a brightly colored cloth on the antenna.
• To keep warm, turn on the car’s engine for about 10 minutes each hour.
• Run the heater and turn on the car lights only when the car is running.
• To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
• Slightly open a window away from the blowing wind for fresh air.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
• Keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
• If you are alone, stay awake as much as possible. If more than one person is in the car, take turns sleeping.
• Wrap your body and head with extra clothes, blankets, newspapers, maps, or removable car mats.

Everyone be safe out there! SERVPRO of Hannibal cares about all of you and we want you to make it home safely!

Tornado!

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Tornadoes are arguably nature’s most violent storms. Generated from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes generally appear as rotating, funnel-shaped clouds extending from the cloud base to the ground. With winds that can reach up to 300 miles per hour, tornadoes can cause massive destruction within seconds. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and fifty miles long.

• The average tornado moves southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.
• The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 miles per hour but may vary from stationary to 70 miles per hour.
• Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.
• They are most frequently reported during spring and summer months.
• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3pm and 9pm.

Unexpected emergencies like tornadoes call for immediate action. SERVPRO of Hannibal knows immediate reaction to the disaster is important to helping you get your life back to normal. We are here to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 573-231-0056.

Be Prepared for Severe Weather

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Here in the Midwest, we all know that severe weather can roll in quickly even with sunny skies. The heroes at SERVPRO of Hannibal want you to be prepared at all times for these storms. Here are some tips that can help you prepare before, during, and after the storm.

Before the Storm

Build an emergency supply kit for your family and make a family communication plan. Some items to include:

• Water
• Food
• Batteries
• Flashlights
• Battery operated radio
• First aid kit
• Communication device (phone or walkie talkie)

During the Storm

Thunderstorms are classified as “severe” when they contain hail, winds in excess of 58 mph, the possibility to produce large damaging winds, and/or tornadoes.

• Stay inside and away from windows and doors.
• Avoid contact with any electrical equipment or cords.
• Use your battery operated radio updates from the local weather stations.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing fixtures can conduct electricity.

After the Storm

Severe weather can bring upon extensive damage to your home or business. A few things to remember:

• Never walk or drive through flooded roads. It only takes 2 inches of water to sweep an adult off their feet and 6 inches of water to move an SUV.
• Stay away from downed electric and power lines.
• Continue to listen local weather reports for updated information or instructions.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas.

When unexpected emergencies like severe weather happen, SERVPRO of Hannibal is here to help get your life back to normal. By utilizing our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines, we can help make it, Like it never even happened.

• We will contact you within 1 hour from the notice of loss to arrange meeting for service.
• Within 4 of notification, we will be on-site to begin mitigation services.
• We will provide you a verbal briefing of the scope of damage within 8 hours of on-site arrival.

SERVPRO of Hannibal is here for you 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Flooded Basement in Clarence, Missouri

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

This is a flooded basement caused by a power outage, which caused the sump pump to stop working.

A strong storm went through Clarence, Missouri causing the power to go out, which caused the sump pump to stop working. Therefore, the basement flooded. Be sure to check your sump pumps during storms to ensure they are working properly.

More importantly, check with your insurance company to see if you have sewer and drain and or sump pump coverage on your insurance policy. Without the proper coverage, your claim might not be covered!

If you experienced a flooded basement from the recent storm, call SERVPRO of Hannibal at 573-231-0056.

We service the following areas: Hannibal, MO; Palmyra, MO; Canton, MO; Edina, MO; Taylor, MO; Lewistown, MO; Memphis, MO; Wayland, MO; Kahoka, MO; New London, MO; Center, MO; Bowling Green, MO; Vandalia, MO; Mexico, MO; Ladonia, MO and many other surrounding towns!