How to Prepare for Bad Weather in Tennessee
In Tennessee, we’re blessed to experience all four seasons. While those seasons provide our state with natural beauty and plenty of reasons to spend time outdoors, that also means we deal with a lot of different weather conditions. You’ve probably heard this idiom: If you don’t like the weather in Tennessee, just wait 10 minutes.
Nothing beats a beautiful spring day in Tennessee. But with weather that can turn on a dime – and multiple kinds of severe weather on the table throughout the year – it’s important to be prepared, so that you can protect yourself, your family, and your property.
In this article, we will cover tips for:
Preparing for Tornadoes
Preparing for Severe Thunderstorms
Preparing for Flash Floods
Preparing for High Winds
Preparing for Winter Storms
Preparing for Ice
Tornadoes
Natives of West and Middle Tennessee are familiar with the threat of tornadoes in the spring and fall, but more recent transplants may be surprised we get them in our state. Tornadoes can be scary, but knowing what to do can offer peace of mind.
Understand the difference between a tornado watch and a warning. A tornado watch is like having all the ingredients for soup ready to go – in other words, everything a tornado needs to form is present. A tornado warning means the soup is on the stove and cooking – or a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
Know your safe place. You should identify a safe place away from windows for your family (don’t forget the pets!) to shelter, like a basement or interior room on the lowest floor.
Stay alert. Monitor the local weather report, especially if a tornado warning has been issued for your county, and be ready to shelter at a moment’s notice. If you need to go to sleep, consider an app that will alert you if a tornado is headed your way. Shelter immediately if a tornado warning has been issued.
Have a plan. If you live in a mobile home, make plans for somewhere safer to be. Do not drive during a tornado watch or warning.
Severe Thunderstorms, High Winds, and Flash Flooding
Stormy, windy weather is common throughout the state year-round, but especially during the wetter spring and summer months.
Secure loose items. Anything outside your home, like patio furniture, grills, and trampolines, can quickly become dangerous projectiles when the wind picks up.
Unplug electronics. Protect your devices from power surges by unplugging them.
Stay alert. Once again, keep an eye on the local weather report for updates on the storm.
Prepare for power outages. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, and candles – and some no-power activities to occupy yourself till power is restored. Consider making an “emergency kit” with all these items. Also, remember to keep fridges and freezers closed as much as possible to preserve food.
Have a plan for flash floods. Flash flooding can occur during heavy rain, especially if you live near a body of water. Know your risk and have a flood evacuation plan. If flash flooding is predicted, you can use sandbags to protect your home.
Winter Storms and Ice
While Tennessee winters are typically pretty mild, we’ve been known to get winter storms from time to time, and it certainly gets cold enough for things to get icy.
Drive safely. Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary during a winter storm or icy conditions. Black ice, which occurs when precipitation freezes clear on hard surfaces, is common and difficult to spot. Check the local news or information from your city and county for updates on road conditions.
Stock up early. If you’ve lived here long, you’ve probably experienced the pre-snow grocery store rush. Since roads might get hazardous, it’s important to stock up on food, water, and other essentials before the storm hits.
Prepare for power outages. Flashlights, batteries, and candles are great; but during the winter, you should also consider how you’ll keep warm. It’s easier to heat a person than a room! Wear layers, snuggle up with family and pets, and close doors to rooms you aren’t using.
The potential for severe weather in Tennessee is one of the trade-offs for living here, but it’s well worth it for all the other benefits. The most important things to remember are to stay alert, stay calm, and have a plan. For an added layer of peace of mind, Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee’s home and auto policies can help protect your house and car. Reach out to a local agent today to learn more or review your current coverage.
