When the weather warms up from May through August, Minnesota residents brace themselves for tornado season. As a leading storm and fire restoration company located in St. Paul, CMServs is dedicated to helping homeowners prepare for and recover from these powerful storms. Our construction project management and comprehensive services guide you through every step, from the initial damage assessment to working closely with your insurance company and managing the entire restoration process.

Understanding Tornadoes in Minnesota

Tornadoes are not just a distant possibility; they are a real and present danger in Minnesota, particularly between May and August. According to the Minnesota Department of State, these months see the highest frequency of tornadoes.

The state experiences an average of 27 tornadoes per year, with June and July being the peak months.

Understanding these statistics can help you better prepare for and respond to tornado threats.

Preparing Your Property for Strong Wind Storms

Preparation is key to minimizing damage from tornadoes and other strong wind storms that come through Minnesota.  Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your home and property:

  1. Secure Loose Objects:
  • Store outdoor furniture, grills, and other objects that can become projectiles.
  • Trim trees and shrubs to reduce the risk of falling branches.
  1. Reinforce Structures:
  • Ensure that your roof, windows, and doors are secure.
  • Consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows.
  1. Inspect Your Roof:
  • Regularly check for loose shingles or tiles.
  • Repair any damages promptly to prevent further issues during a storm.
  1. Maintain Your Yard:
  • Remove dead trees and branches.
  • Keep your yard clear of debris that could cause damage.
  1. Secure Outdoor Structures:
  • Ensure sheds, garages, and other outbuildings are securely anchored.
  • Reinforce carports and patios to withstand strong winds.
  1. Check Fences and Gates:
  • Make sure fences and gates are stable and can withstand high winds.
  • Repair any weak points to prevent them from becoming hazards.
 

Ensuring Your Family’s Safety

Your family’s safety should be your top priority during tornado season. Here are essential tips to ensure everyone stays safe:

  1. Create a Safety Plan:
  • Identify a safe room or storm shelter in your home, such as a basement or an interior room without windows.
  • Practice tornado drills with your family so everyone knows what to do and where to go.
  1. Stay Informed:
  • Monitor weather reports and alerts from reliable sources.
  • Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio for real-time updates.
  1. Emergency Kit:
  • Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
  • Ensure your kit is easily accessible in your safe room.
  1. Know Warning Signs:
  • Be aware of signs of an approaching tornado, such as a dark, greenish sky, large hail, a loud roar similar to a freight train, and a visible funnel cloud.
  1. Communicate with Family Members:
  • Ensure all family members know how to contact each other in case of separation.
  • Establish a meeting point in case you are not together when the tornado hits.
  1. Pet Safety:
  • Include pets in your safety plan.
  • Keep pet carriers or leashes in your emergency kit for quick evacuation.

 

First Steps After Experiencing Storm or Wind Damage

If your property sustains damage from a storm or tornado, taking immediate action can prevent further loss and streamline the restoration process. Here are the first steps to take:

  1. Ensure Safety:
  • Make sure everyone is safe and accounted for.
  • Avoid areas with downed power lines or structural damage.
  1. Document the Damage:
  • Take photos and videos of the property damage for insurance purposes.
  • Make a list of all damaged items and structural issues.
  1. Contact Your Insurance Company:
  • Report the damage as soon as possible.
  • Provide them with the documentation you collected.
  1. Reach Out to CMServs:
  • Our team will respond quickly to assess the damage, assist with insurance valuations, and begin the restoration process.
  • We will work with your insurance company to ensure your claim is handled efficiently.
  1. Prevent Further Damage:
  • Cover damaged areas with tarps or plywood to protect against further weather damage.
  • Remove any water-damaged items to prevent mold growth.
  1. Temporary Repairs:
  • Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as boarding up broken windows.
  • Save receipts for all repairs for insurance reimbursement.
  1. Professional Assessment:
  • Have professionals, like CMServs, inspect your property to assess the full extent of the damage.
  • Follow their professional recommendations for a safe and effective restoration process.

Logo CMServs

Why Choose CMServs?

At CMServs, we understand the emotional and financial toll that storm and fire damage can take on homeowners. That’s why we offer a comprehensive, turn-key restoration service that covers every aspect of your recovery process. Here’s why you can trust CMServs:

  • Experience and Expertise: With over 40 years of experience in storm and fire restoration, our team is equipped to handle any situation.
  • Customer-Centric Approach: We prioritize your needs and work closely with you to restore your home. We are a turn-key restoration company – with you from day one!
  • Insurance Assistance: Navigating insurance claims can be daunting. Our experts are here to assist you with the paperwork, valuations, and negotiations. We’ve been through it hundreds of times.
  • Quality Assurance: We use the best materials and latest construction techniques to ensure long-lasting repairs and restorations. At CMServs, we stand behind our work!
  • 24/7 Emergency Response: Tornadoes and storms don’t follow a schedule, and neither do we. Our team is ready to assist you any time, day or night.
  • Comprehensive Services: From roof damage and broken windows to full structural repairs, we handle all aspects of restoration.

 

A final thought from CMServs:

Tornado season throughout Minnesota is a time of heightened vigilance and preparation. By taking proactive steps to secure your property and ensure your family’s safety, you can mitigate the impact of these powerful storms. And if the worst does happen, know that CMServs is here to support you every step of the way. From immediate damage assessment to final restoration, we are your trusted partner every step of the way.

Stay safe, keep track of current and future weather situations in the Twin Cities area, stay prepared, and remember that CMServs is always here to help you rebuild and restore. With our expert guidance and comprehensive services, you can face tornado season with confidence, knowing that we have your back.