Summer Haboobs

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Frequently occurring across the Southwestern region of the United States, intense dust storms also referred to as haboobs, bring walls of dust billowing across miles of land during monsoon season. As monsoon season is upon us here in Arizona, it is important to be prepared in the following months and aware of the potential threats facing your home. Specifically, as dust storms can damage the integrity of your home and leave you vulnerable to further damages caused by the aggressive rain and storms that often follow. Here are a few preventative tips to help keep your property safe during a haboob:

• Trim your trees - One of the greatest threats faced by homeowners during a dust storm is from falling trees and branches. Further, because dust storms typically strike with little to no notice, it is particularly critical to maintain your trees throughout the storm season.
• Keep the roof in good shape – High winds from dust storms can be highly damaging to the roof of your home; particularly if you have shingles that are loose or starting to peel.
• Put away umbrellas and other potential hazards – Directly preceding a haboob, putting away umbrellas and other outdoor items is extremely important as they are likely to become wind-blown debris and cause serious damage to your home. As a further precaution, dismantle and safely store umbrellas during storm season when you are not home as they are particularly dangerous; capable of inflicting blunt-force damage from wind as well as serving as a lightning rod alongside other metal items.
• Keep windows and doors shut during the storm – During a haboob, ensure that all windows and doors are tightly shut to prevent strong winds from entering your home and damaging indoor items.

Beginning in June and continuing through September, monsoon season and the dust storms that accompany it are prevalent and highly threatening to residential and commercial property. However, with thorough preparation, you can hugely minimize potential damage. In the case that your home or business is affected by a summer haboob or storm, SERVPRO of Gilbert, Chandler South, Ahwatukee and South Tempe is there to help. Call (480) 558-7620 for the high-quality and efficient remediation of your damages.