4 Steps During a Bomb Cyclone Storm to Help Prevent Water Damage!

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Heavy Rainfall in Redding, Calfornia causes Flood Damage.

If you have lived in Northern California, you are probably familiar with the different seasons that take place each year. December is considered the wettest month in Northern California, with 4 inches of rainfall on average. But this year looks a lot different. On January 4th, 2023, Governor Newsom declared a state of Emergency for the entire state of California as a cyclone bomb storm was predicted to hit the state. With the prediction of flooding, high winds, and power outages, the Redding California Fire Department released a statement offering free sand for those preparing for flooding.

What is a cyclone bomb storm or a bombogenesis storm? According to AccuWeather, "In simple terms, bombogenesis is a storm (low-pressure area) that undergoes rapid strengthening. The vast majority of such storms occur over the ocean. The storm can be tropical or non-tropical in nature." 

With the passing of the cyclone bomb storm, KRCTV said the worst is behind us, but we can see more rain as the week continues. What does that mean for homeowners, and how could this affect your property? During strong storms, flooding, hail, and power outages aren't the only thing you have to fear. With the continuation of rainfall brings a greater risk of water and sewage damage to your home. Water damage can come from broken or loose shingles on your roof, not having a rain guard over your chimney, clogged gutters, and the list goes on and on. Heavy rainfall can also cause water and debris to overload sewer systems. If the water continues to flow into the home's sewer lines, a sewage backup can occur in your basement. But a few preventative steps can help keep the heavy rainfall from wreaking havoc on your home. 

• Check your gutters

• Keeping your gutters free of debris will help with the overflow of water into the foundation of your house. Installing gutter guards can also help prevent leaves and larger debris from falling into the gutters. 

• Trim Trees

• Trim your trees of any low-hanging branches that could fall and cause damage. Any damage to the shingles of your roof, could allow water to seep into your home and create the possibility of mold growth. 

• Clean out yard drain

• Regularly clean out any debris that is blocking or clogging your yard drain. You can also install a drain guard to prevent any rocks, leaves, or dirt from flowing into the drain and causing your sewage line to back up. 

• Check improper grading

• If your home’s grading system is deteriorating, water will eventually find its way into your home. Watch for pools of water that accumulate in your yard that are close to your foundation. Professional landscapers can help with rebuilding your home's grading system and keep water from seeping into the foundation. 

If you have been impacted by this storm and have experienced any water damage, flood damage, or storm damage, SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity, and Greater Tehama counties is here to help! We have served this area for 30 years and know what kind of damage these storms can cause to your home. Our technicians are trained and certified in water restoration, odor removal, and biohazards safety and cleanup if needed. 

Give us a call at 530-222-0200