Preparing for Tornadoes in Southern Minnesota | SERVPRO of Rochester

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Has your home been impacted by a tornado this season? Call SERVPRO of Rochester to get your home back in order.

We are in the heart of severe weather and tornado season here in Rochester, and while it has been a quieter season than usual at this point, severe weather can pop up at any time. This hot and humid time of year is known to produce warm and sunny mornings that quickly turn south as storm systems develop over the plains and roll toward us. 

Preparing for severe weather starts much earlier than after the weather warning is announced. By preparing your yard, family and home now, you can jump into action as soon as a tornado warning is issued. SERVPRO of Rochester’s team wants you to stay as safe as possible during this volatile time of year, so read on to learn how to prepare. 

Preparing Your Home

One of the most destructive parts of a storm is wind. Winds can easily reach over 100 miles per hour during a strong storm and they can pick up debris and objects along the way. Keep your yard tidy as often as possible by removing dead branches or limbs and pick up toys or yard equipment regularly.

If severe weather is predicted a few days out, take the time to tie down outdoor furniture and secure things to the ground like propane tanks or anything else you don’t want blowing or floating away. You should also clear out any debris from your gutters to help the rain flow down and away from your home.

Preparing Your Family

Tornadoes can be dangerous or even deadly if you are in their path, so the last thing you want to be doing is running around grabbing supplies and getting ready if one is on the way to your house. Ensure that your safe shelter location is in an interior room without any windows, and keep it clear during the entire season so you can get to it quickly if needed.

Your freshly restocked emergency kit should also be waiting for you there. Pack anything that your family would need to live comfortably during and after a storm. This includes fresh water, shelf-stable food, batteries and flashlights, and a weather radio. Don’t forget to check your kit at the beginning of every season to make sure nothing is expired or was used and not replaced. 

What to Do During a Tornado Warning

We know that many people’s first instinct when a tornado warning is issued is to head out to the driveway to chat with the neighbors about it and watch the storm come in. Storms are cool, that much is true, but don’t do that! Conditions can change in the blink of an eye, and the wind can quickly create projectiles.

Head inside and get to your safe shelter location right away. Don’t forget to grab your pets, too! Stay there and wait out the storm, and consider sheltering under a sturdy table or workbench for added protection. 

After the storm, take a walk around your property to assess the damage. SERVPRO of Rochester’s storm restoration team is trained to handle any sort of storm damage, and we are here for you 24/7 to help you recover. Don’t hesitate to call us!

Summer storm damage can be extensive. Call SERVPRO of Rochester for immediate assistance.

Storm Damage in Olmsted County, MN

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

We all have experienced some type of storm damage. One time after our daughter was born a storm rolled in and the winds were so strong that it picked up our deck table which was aluminum frame with a glass table and toppled it over the grass below. We have have endured storms that have done extensive hail damage to our roof and siding. Thankfully those times and all the others we have been physically protected, but had to deal with damage to our home and belongings.

It seems that many storms each year are mighty and fierce. What can you do when you find yourself dealing with flooding in your home? Or perhaps you have strong line winds that have blown out your windows. 

SERVPRO of Rochester has served customers after storm damage.  Pine Island was flooded recently with the Zumbro River swelling over the banks and the water rushed into people's basements. Our technicians were called to help the homeowners once that waters receded. A family in Oronoco had their greenhouse windows blown out by a line of strong winds.  We were able to clean-up the area and dispose of all the glass and debris. 

These are just a few examples of storm damage the SERVPRO of Rochester was able to help the homeowners clean-up after the damage. 

SERVPROrochester.com

Flooding in SE MN

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that according to the National Flood Insurance Program over 90% of all the United States natural disasters involve flooding? The Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA states on their website that one inch, YES ONLY ONE INCH, of water can cause $25,000 in damage to a person's home. 

I don't know about you but that number takes my breath away in astonishment and amazement! The power of water should not be underestimated!  Several websites state that six inches of moving water and has created flooding is enough to knock a person down. Some people may say that six inches is not a lot of water, but when you are faced with rapidly rising water and flooding, the situation becomes dangerous quickly. 

Here are a few tips that SERVPRO of Rochester hopes can help you if you find yourself or a loved one in a flooding situation. 

• Find safe shelter right away.
• Communicate with loved ones and friends where you are going.
• NEVER walk, swim or drive through this water. 
• Stay away from bridges. 
• If you are in your home, try to leave as soon as the flood water starts entering your home. Don't try to wait it out in hopes that the water goes down.  
• Stay away from electricity and anything and everything electrical. Don't touch or use!

Stay safe from SERVPRO of Rochester!

Tornado Season in Rochester MN

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rochester can help homeowners and renters after experiencing a storm event. Many times storms strike without warning. 

Living in Minnesota, we usually don't experience tornadoes year round, however the season is from May through October. Being prepared is key!

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has a few tips that we also suggest. 

1. Always stay away from windows. 
2. Make sure you have a plan and communicate with family on what you would do in the case of a tornado. 
3. Check supplies: battery operated radio, an extra cell phone charger, blanket or heavy quilt in case you need to pull it over your head for protection from flying debris.
4. Go to the lowest level and interior area. This will give you more protection that an open area with windows or doors.
5. If you are driving, do NOT park under a bridge. Go to the nearest gas station or area where you can seek safe shelter. 

Preparation is important. Take the time to go over the list, practice and plan. 

SERVPROrochester.com

Storm Safety In SE MN

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Storms can happen quickly and change your life in literally one second. 

SERVPRO of Rochester wants to share a few tips with you if you find yourself out enjoying the lake, camping or in nature. 

The Center for Disease Control, CDC, reports that on average every year 27 people die in a lightning strike incident. 

• Keep your eye to the sky. Watch for weather changes particularly strong winds, darkening skies.
• Make sure you always have an exit plan. If you are on the lake, be prepared to pack up and leave if you hear thunder. If you are out hiking, know where the closest shelter is located. 
• Make sure your cell phone is charged. You never know when you may need to call for help. 
• Stay indoors for 30 minutes after you hear the last thunder sound.
• Stay away from water. 
• Avoid using a landline that has a cord.
• Do not shower or use water during a storm.
• If indoors, do NOT lie down on the concrete floor as there are metal rods in concrete floors and lightning can travel through that material.
• Take storms seriously and never hesitate to protect yourself, family and friends.

SERVPROrochester.com

Early Summer Storms in Rochester, MN

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

As residents of SE Minnesota in communities such as Byron, Eyota, Oronoco, Zumbrota and Rochester, we find ourselves dealing with early summer storms that are packing a punch to the environment and homes. 

Our weather is all over the place going from cool spring days to blazing hot summer days and we are only in early June. As we prepare for summer storms and tornado season, SERVPRO of Rochester would like to suggest a few tips for renters and homeowners. 

Here are a few tips to help you protect your home and belongings during the early storms. 

• Check the downspouts to ensure they are free from leaves, twigs, branches, nests, and other debris that has blown around. Remove any debris. 
• Do you have downspouts on? Are they pointed away from the house? Are the downspouts intact or need replacement?
• Walk around your home. Do you have items secured in case of strong winds?
• Do you have plants or flowers that need securing? 

SERVPRO of Rochester hopes that your home doesn't sustain damage from winds and storms. If you find yourself with water in your home, we provide water mitigation services. 

SERVPROrochester.com

507-286-9170

Are We Done With Winter Storms in Rochester, MN?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

In Rochester, MN as we look at the weather forecast and see temperatures in the thirties and forties, we get excited that spring is near and we are done with snow. However, this week Rochester, MN may be getting a good dose of cold weather and multiple inches of snow!

SERVPRO of Rochester has some tips for preparing for a winter storm. 

• Check your lower level or basement in the utility room area. Look for any water intrusion on the floor. 
• Look along the exterior walls in the lower level and check, look, feel for any water. 
• Check the batteries in your weather radio, if you have one. Be prepared with extra batteries, flashlights, blanket, snacks.
• If you need to travel, make sure to have emergency items with you: windshield scraper, shovel, flashlight, blanket, bottle of water and candy bar just in case you get stuck.

SERVPRO of Rochester hopes you never find yourself in an emergency in the event of a winter storm, but we want you to be prepared for anything.

Stay safe. If you need our services, we are available no matter the weather or time of day. 

SERVPROrochester.com

Preparing for Storms Part III

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding is something that no-one wants to happen to their home. The effects of having your home flooded can be catastrophic. 

The National Severe Storms Laboratory, NSSL, says that in the United States flooding kills more than tornadoes, hurricanes and lightning. Flooding is when water comes down onto land extremely quickly or when it rains repeatedly in the same area which causes land oversaturation. 

Flooding can affect your home in any season. Here in Southeast Minnesota, flooding can occur even in winter!  Yes, even in winter. Ice dams and then snow melting can cause an area of your home to be flooded as the temperature fluctuates. 

So, what can you do to help lessen your chances of having your home flooded? SERVPRO of Rochester recommends the following tips.

1. Always make sure the grade (soil, ground) around the perimeter of your home is sloping away from your home. 
2. Make sure you have gutters on your home. 
3. Make sure your gutters are free from debris. 
4. Check your down spouts to make sure they are connected to your home and pointed away from your home's foundation. 

You can do your best to take care of your home knowing that there is no fail-proof way to avoid flooding. 

SERVPRO of Rochester hopes in your time of need, you call us first. 507-286-9170

Preparing for Storms Part IV

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rochester strongly recommends homeowners, renters, business owners, and property managers to make sure you check the insurance policy annually. 

The importance of reviewing your insurance each year is invaluable, so when you find yourself faced with a water, fire, or storm damage to your home or place of business you know what is covered by your policy. 

What should you do if you find yourself with a storm damage in your home?

1. Try to identify the source of the loss. What does the source mean? It means how did the damage to your home start? Many times the cause of loss is a broken pipe, refrigerator water line or toliet overflow. Your insurance company will need this information. 
2. Call SERVPRO of Rochester 507-286-9170. We are always here to help. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 
3. If water is coming into your home, if you can move the contents, the "stuff" out of the area to a different area. Many people move contents to the garage. Do NOT throw anything away. 
4. Make piles or areas separate. One keep. One dispose pile. You will need to take pictures and write an itemized specific list of any contents that have been destroyed.

We will do our best to be out to your home as soon as possible and help you in your time of need. 

Preparing for Storms Part II

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever counted from when you see lightning and then hear the thunder? I remember counting the seconds from when I first saw lightning and then I listened intently for the thunder, counting the entire time. 

Lightning is a serious part of storms that we all need to take seriously. 

The Weather Channel estimates that here in Southeastern Minnesota that we are at risk for 30-50 days during the year of severe storms and lightning. 

So, we are going to experience lightning and storms here in MN and the best thing you can do is to be prepared!

What should you do if you find yourself with a storm?

1. When you see the sky getting dark and/or lightning, see shelter immediately!
2. Shelter means inside, not outside under a tree.
3. You should avoid water and anything to do with water: shower, bath, and washing dishes.
4. Avoid using any electrical appliance as lightning can travel through these items.
5. Wait for 30 minutes after the last lightning strike or thunder to go outside.

The Weather Service had some amazing facts about lightning that we want to share with you.

• Lightning can reach the temperature of 50,000 degrees Fareinheit which is about 5 times the temperature of the surface of the Sun!
• At any moment on Earth there are on average 1,800 strikes
• The average lightning strike can light a 100 watt lightbulb for 3 months! Incredible, right?

Lightning should be taken seriously. SERVPRO of Rochester wants you to be safe during these storms.

Preparing for Storms Part I

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rochester recommends that you take some time to prepare your home and family for the upcoming summer storm season.

Here in Minnesota, we are in the peak months of tornado season. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website states that June through August is the time that Minnesota can expect tornadoes. The earliest tornado Minnesota has experienced was on March 6, 2017 and the latest in the year was on November 16, 1931. 

No-one wants to go through the experience of a tornado, but it's better to be prepared than be caught off guard. 

Keep an eye to the sky. This is a popular expression, but one that is true. Watch the sky. If the weather is nice and hot then suddenly turns black in the sky. Get home.  Sirens will go off if there is a tornado warning.

Some things for you to think about and talk to your family about: 

• What is the plan if there is a tornado?
• Where will everyone meet? 
• Do you have a weather radio that is battery opeated?
• Do you have something sturdy to pull over your body in case the area above you is torn off? Many recommend using a mattress to pull over you for protection from flying debris.
• Do you have a flashlight with working batteries?

We want to help you in your time of crisis. SERVPRO of Rochester is here to help you.

Summer Storms in SE MN

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

In the last few days in Southeastern Minnesota we have finally received some much needed rainfall. However, it's been so dry it will take much more rain for this drought to begin to reverse. These storms brought some heavy rain, hail and strong winds. 

SERVPRO of Rochester has some recommendations to help you assess if your home has received damage. 

Heavy rain?

• Check around your home for any cracks in your foundation to see if water can seep into your home that way. 
• Check your basement or lowest level in your home for water. Many times heavy rains  cause flooding which then the water makes it into your home. Walk around on the carpet or flooring to see if you feel any water or feel squishyness on your feet. 
• Check your gutters for any debris and make sure the gutters are pointed away from your home and foundation. 

Call SERVPRO of Rochester if you find water in your home. We are here to help. 507-286-9170 or SERVPROrochester.com

March Storms in Rochester MN

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

Minnesota in March can be unpredictable with all different types of weather.  March is a month that many times we receive heavy snow and even rain within the same week.  

Now is the time to check that your sump pump is operating properly. 

Sump pump failure insurance coverage most often has limits. Check your policy now to see if you have adequate insurance coverage for a sump pump loss. 

Sump pumps failure happens for various reasons. We recommend that you contact your plumber to look over the sump pump to ensure it is working properly. 

When sump pumps fail often the entire basement is affected with water. This can result in having not only affected pad, carpet, hardwood flooring but also vanities, furniture and personal belongings.

If you experience a sump pump failure call SERVPRO of Rochester. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even holidays. 507-286-9170.

Summer Storms in Southern Minnesota

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Do you remember what happened in Southern Minnesota one year ago this week?

You probably remember the month of June it rained and rained and rained which caused flooding on all sorts of levels creating havoc.

The weather forecast for this week one year later is much different. In SE MN we are expected to have temperatures in the nineties with humidity near tropical levels.  What does this sound like it would be a good recipe for? 

THUNDERSTORMS! and rain, wind and maybe hail.

I share this with you so you can be informed and prepared for some potentially strong storms.

Here are a few tips:

1. Check your gutters to make sure they are clean from leaves and other debris.

2. Make sure if you have an umbrella on your deck, take it down. 

3. Make sure chairs and chair cushions are secure. Push them back towards the house. 

4. Clear any tree branches or limbs that may be touching windows or parts of your home. 

SERVPRO of Rochester hopes that you stay safe during the stormy times. We are here to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on holidays.

Preparing Your Rochester Home for Storms

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Alexander Graham Bell's famous words: "Before anything else, preparation is the key to success."

SERVPRO of Rochester wants you to be safe and successful in times when the weather is turning the skies dark and overcast, the wind makes you feel like your siding may blow off and rain is pelting your windows. 

Preparation is key to success! The American Red Cross suggests that each home have a preparedness kit ready in case of storm, disaster or emergency. 

The Red Cross list suggests your kit contain:

*bottles of water

*blankets

*flashlight with extra batteries

*snacks: animal crackers, candy bars, gatorade, etc. 

*cell phones with chargers

*extra cash

*games and activities if you have younger children

*medicine

*two way radio

*weather radio with extra batteries

*extra set of keys

Other websites suggest to prepare your home by unplugging small electrical appliances, to fill your vehicles gas tank full of gasoline and to make sure you have 2 gallons of drinking water per person. 

If you find yourself with water in your basement, sewage coming into your home, dealing with the aftermath of a fire, trauma or graffiti, we want you to call us! 507-286-9170. 24/7, even holidays!

Southern Minnesota Tornado Season

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Is tornado season even a thing? Yep! I think in Minnesota it is a season! According to the MN DNR website 3/4 of tornadoes occur during the months of May, June and July.  In June 2010, in one day there was a breakout of 48 tornadoes. INCREDIBLE!

Preparation may help you survive tornado.

There is a difference between tornado watch and warning!

Tornado watch: a tornado is possible! Keep your eyes to the sky!

Tornado warning: a tornado is occurring or will be soon! Go to a safe spot now!

1. Go the lowest room away from windows and doors. 

2. The Storm Prediction Center recommends if you are driving that you should keep your seat belt on and put a blanket, seat cushion or coat over your head. 

Stay safe! 

Dust....An Incredible Force of Nature

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

A Dust Storm.....Really?  Yep! It's incredible the power and force of nature that we experience each and every day.

Two days ago The Washington Post published an article on the Sahara Dust storm which is supposed to make landfall in the next day. It's fascinating to read how different parts of the United States will be affected. This dust cloud is about 4,000 miles long!  The dust plume is expected to hit Texas and Louisana on Thursday. It's predicted that by Saturday this monster dust plume will stretch all the way up into the Midwest, most likely affecting all the United States. 

How will this affect our daily life? 

Well, if you are in the southern US you may experience poor visibility including white out conditions, and if it rains most likely the rain and dust will mix making it look like it's raining brown. Citizens may also experience breathing difficulties. 

In the Midwest, the Post reports that there may be fine dust on cars outside, people experiencing breathing difficulties and suprisingly more intense sunsets. 

Sharing information and being in awe of nature is a beautiful thing!

If you find yourself after mother nature has destroyed your home from fire, water, sewer or experienced a trauma, we are here to help. SERVPRO of Rochester is here ready to serve you in mitigation in your home. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with technicians always ready to help.

The Aftermath from Storms in Southern Minnesota

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

In Minnesota May and June are times of thunderstorms. We find ourselves in this time now as it rumbles, pours and blows outside and we hunker down in our basements. When it gets quiet outside we go outside to try to see the damage to our property. 

The next morning after a storm is tough. Sometimes we get lucky and only have grass that is laying down or leaves on the ground that have blown off from the strong winds. However, there are times that you step on your grass and get wet shoes or other times you are in the basement and notice water. 

These are tough times. We understand and are here to help you through these discouraging times. We have dealt with many broken sump pumps, overflowing drains, seepage to tramatic events such as unexpected deaths to cleaning up graffiti. 

Preparing for Storms in Rochester Area

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

It's that time of year again.  The trees, shrubs and flowers are starting to bud and we see signs of new life all around us. Spring and early summer can also be a time of strong storms.  We at SERVPRO of Rochester want to make sure you are prepared and stay safe.  

Here are a few tips:

*Make sure your gutters are free of debris and clean.

*Look for tree branches that extend over your roof or close to windows. Assess if they would create damage in a wind gust or strong storm.

*Have a battery operated flashlight and NOAA weather radio. 

*Have a family plan ready in preparation of a strong thunderstorm or tornado.  Talk about this plan with your family and practice. 

It's always better to be prepared for whatever weather we have whether it's strong wind gusts, hail, rainstorms, tornadoes or flooding. 

We are here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Even holidays. 

Rochester Do You Agree It Feels Like Spring?

3/1/2020 (Permalink)

In Rochester, Minnesota we have been experiencing above normal temperatures during the daytime. Yet this winter, we have received the normal amount of precipitation.  Compared to last year, this year we didn't have amount of record breaking below zero temperatures for the long sustained periods of time.  According to the National Weather Service website, this is a good thing!  The snow melt is slower this year than last year which lessens the flooding chances.  In two weeks, the National Weather Service will update the flooding forecast again. 

SERVPRO of Rochester will continue to monitor the National Weather Services forecast. The National Weather Service is saying that the ground is very saturated, 99% and that if we receive heavy rains then we will have a greatly increased chance of flooding locally. 

Please remember a few safety tips when you find yourself with rain or water coming in your home:

*as quickly as you can, move all the contents to a higher level or garage area

*check your sump pump to make sure it is working

*call SERVPRO of Rochester to help mitigate your loss 

Raging Rivers and Water in Rochester

6/29/2019 (Permalink)

The National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, reported that in Rochester, Minnesota on June 27-28 over 5" of rain fell in 6 hours. As a result, the Rochester International Airport was closed for several hours, highways and interstates closed, and homes flooded.  Devastation within hours.  How fast life can change.  We at SERVPRO of Rochester understand that and are here to help you. 

It's important to remember that you should take care of yourself and family first.  Your safety should be the number one priority.  After you get to a safe place or secure a place, then you can make a plan on what needs to be done next.  

If you have water in your basement and the level of water is high to where outlets are located, turn off the electricity.  

If you have water that has sewage in it, don't go in the water as it may be contaminated. 

You will need to call your insurance company and then SERVPRO of Rochester for us to come out and help you.

The Water is Down...Now What?

6/29/2019 (Permalink)

It's a few days after the insane amount of rain Rochester, MN received this week.  The water is starting to recede and go down.  Now what? 

Currently, we have a waiting list of over 100 leads.  Some homeowners have started to do some of the work themselves.  A few have called us saying that they have chosen to remove the carpet and pad and then ask us if there's even a reason for SERVPRO of Rochester to come out to their home. 

YES! 

Even if homeowners have started to do some work on their home, and think there's nothing else to be done at their home, WRONG!

SERVPRO of Rochester would come out, take moisture readings and then tell the homeowner the plan as far as removal of items affected. We remove all affected materials and document each step in the process. Mold can grow in as little as 72 hours. Disinfecting the area is also important in the mitigation process. Then, we place commercial equipment for the drying process. Every 24 hours we come and monitor the areas and dry using IICRC standards.

Quickly Forming Storms of Summer in Rochester

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Last week in Minnesota we had a beautiful day that by evening had turned into an extremely strong summer storm.  The summer day was super hot and muggy with temperatures in the upper 80s and after a long, cold, brutal, snowy and icy winter that was welcome.  By evening around seven or eight, the wind was up to speeds of sixty miles an hour, blowing trees into homes and uprooting them. In Southeast Minnesota, we received over three inches of rain. 

SERVPRO of Rochester was called to help customers who had sump pump failures and had water coming in basements.  We were glad to help. SERVPRO of Rochester's Crew Chief and Production Technicians went out and extracted water, removed any materials that couldn't be restored and monitored the affected areas and materials each day until dry according to IICRC standards.

Call SERVPRO of Rochester if you experience flooding, sewage backup or sump pump failure.  We also do fire mitigation, death or accident clean up. 

Spring Rains in Pine Island and Zumbrota

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Finally Springtime!

After this long winter in Minnesota, we are hoping that the forecasted rain will bring May flowers! With this rain which nourishes the plants and trees, it also can cause damage to your home when it rains too fast or too much rain. 

Be prepared!

*NEVER drive around barricades that are blocking a flooded road.

*When there is flooding on the road, turn around!  Don't attempt to drive through water on the roadway.

Facts from the National Weather Service about flooding on roadways:

-6" of rushing water on a road can knock down an adult.

-12" of rushing water on a road can pick up and carry a car away

-24" of rushing water on a road can pick up and carry away trucks and SUVs

Be careful out there in the next week as the forecast is saying we may receive 4" of rain.

Flooding in Rochester, MN

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

The flooding in Rochester, MN and surrounding communities over the last few days are the worst in decades.  We, at SERVPRO of Rochester, hope that those affected by the floods find safety during this time.  

In the past week we have experienced a dramatic increase in calls about water issues in homes ranging from ice dams, sump pump failures and seepage. 

One awesome thing about SERVPRO is that even though each franchise is individually and independently owned, during times like this, we help each other out. We are able to enact teams that specialize in storm events.  The team will travel anywhere in the country.  Currently, there are SERVPRO Storm teams in the Twin Cities area and the Rochester area to help us and get to the customers faster.