Gaining a Better Understanding of Ice Storms

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Ice storm in South Jordan,UT

Since you’ve been living in your South Jordan, UT, home, you’ve presumably come across your fair share of storms. However, a storm involving freezing rain can be a completely different kind of weather event that can leave you dealing with the aftermath of storm damage. Before you’re forced to face another intense ice catastrophe, it’s important to gain a greater understanding of what an ice storm is and the impact one can have on your residence.

? There is a difference between a snowstorm and an ice storm. Freezing rain differentiates from snow in that snow falls only when the temperature is consistently at below-freezing levels from the sky directly to contact with the ground. Contrastingly, ice can form on the ground even if the water initially falls from the sky as rain, due to variations in temperature from the warmer air above the ground to the subfreezing air close to the ground’s surface.

? Storms involving thick layers of ice can be highly dangerous. Ice can create problems in a plethora of ways, such as tree branches and power lines being weighed down, causing them to break or fall. Downed power lines means the loss of electricity, which can lead to areas of the home being affected like freezing pipes. Moreover, if strong winds are involved, hardened sheets of ice can be strewn throughout the air, potentially damaging your roof, windows, and more.

? Prepare for freezing storms ahead of time by stocking up on supplies. When a storm brings ice that lasts for days, it’s best to be prepared in advance. Stockpile things like batteries, flashlights, blankets, canned food, water, a first-aid kit and more to ensure you’re safe and secure during a freezing weather event.

Handling the Impact

After a storm passes, any damaging effects it had on your South Jordan, UT, home can be repaired by storm damage restoration technicians who are experienced with severe weather events. Once you’ve gained a better idea of what an ice storm is and the power it brings, preparing your home sooner rather than later is a great step towards protecting your residence.