Thunderstorms without rain?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Picture of Dry thunderstorm without rain in Shasta County, California producing sky to ground lightning that could cause potential wildfires.

Living in California, we become accustomed to natural phenomenons that most of our country has never experienced. Dry Thunderstorms, a word commonly used among California firefighters, are becoming a more frequent natural phenomenon within our community. Adding this to our vocabulary is not something we love to celebrate; with the frequently changing weather patterns in Shasta County, this word becomes more of a warning than a weather forecast.  

Dry thunderstorms get their name from the lack of rain they produce, but that doesn't keep them from creating sky to ground lightning. Mix dry and hot weather conditions with this type of storm, and you get high risk for fire hazards and wildfires. Are we in the middle of a science fiction novel? Preparing your home for a possible fire in the middle of a storm can seem a little strange, but here is a list to keep you, your property, and your family safe. 

• Defensible Space - creating a vegetation-free border around your house that is 3 to 10 feet in width can lower your risk of fire damage to your home. It also creates a space for firefighters to do their job and keep your home safe. For a more in-depth description of creating a defensible space, check out the NASD. 

• Add 1/8 inch mesh screening over vents to your house. - this can keep fire embers from falling into your home, through your roof, attic, and gables. Make sure to keep the screens free and clear of any debris. 

• Trim trees around your house and property. - Remove any low-hanging or dead limbs over your roof and gutters. Keep all branches a minimum of 6 feet from the ground. 

• Check your home insurance. - Most home insurance includes wildfire coverage but talking to your local insurance company to review your coverage regarding dry thunderstorms is a great way to be prepared. 

• Be observant of the weather forecast. - frequently check your local weather station for chances of thunderstorms, dry thunderstorms, or even dry lightning. 

California's landscape is beautiful. Learning how to embrace its wild side is sometimes a challenge, but being prepared and following a few steps can keep us enjoying the beauty and land California has to offer us. Sometimes disaster strikes and creates circumstances that are out of our control. If a recent storm has caused any damage to your home or property, give us a call, we can help!

530-222-0200