How To Prepare for a Nor'easter

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these Tips to be Prepared for a Nor'easter and Winter Storms and avoid Damage in your Emporia, VA property.

A nor'easter is a specific type of storm that develops when air from the Atlantic Ocean collides with the warmer air coming from the Gulf of Mexico. The clashing temperatures create an unstable atmosphere that can produce snow, heavy rain and strong winds. These storms typically move up the coast toward the New England area and the Canadian border region.

Even if you are used to winter storms, a prolonged pattern of precipitation can pose a threat. If the weather report indicates that a storm is headed toward your home in Emporia, VA knowing what to expect can help you make smart choices.

What To Expect During a Nor'easter

Good preparation starts with understanding some basic nor'easter facts. Any storm in which temperatures drop below freezing and rain or snow falls has the potential to cause certain hazards:

• Broken power lines
• Fallen trees
• Frozen pipes
• Icy roads

Of course, you want to stay out of this weather as much as possible. Seeking shelter at home is ideal, but if a tree causes damage to your house or the power goes out, you may face more challenges than you bargain for.

How To Prepare for the Storm

The good news is that the weather forecast is likely to give you a few days' notice that there is the potential for a nor'easter to come your way. This gives you time to stock up on necessities such as water, shelf-stable food and toiletries. It's also a good idea to make sure you know where your flashlights are and have backup batteries for them. Make sure your first aid kit is up to date as well.

Due to the possibility of heavy rains, it's a good idea to check your home for issues that could make it more vulnerable to flooding. Make sure windows and doors are well-sealed and check downspouts and gutters to ensure that they are clear of debris. If you have a basement, consider installing a sump pump just in case groundwater seeps in through the foundation.

What To Do in the Aftermath

After the storm passes, it's time to inspect your home for damage, particularly if you lost power. Start by testing the faucets. If water comes out in a slow drip when you turn it on, it is likely that you have a frozen pipe. Locate the problem and fix it before attempting to use that faucet again.

If your home is flooded, your first call should be to storm damage restoration specialists. The team can arrive at your home within a few hours and survey the damage. After providing you with an estimate, they can get started on the repairs right away. The sooner they are able to clean and dry the area and replace all the ruined materials, the less secondary damage you are likely to have.

If a nor'easter is a common winter event in your area, it's important to know what you could be up against when the next one hits. Understanding the risks involved can help you prepare better in the days prior to the storm.