Hello Southern Marylanders!
Today, we’re taking a deep dive into one of our region’s unique weather phenomena – hail. From tiny, pea-sized ice balls to the occasional, awe-inspiring golf ball-sized ones, hail can range from a mere curiosity to a genuine hazard. But don’t worry, your friends at Priddy Roofing and Exteriors are here to help you understand this weather event better and share some crucial tips to safeguard your property and yourself.
So, what exactly is hail?
Hailstones are balls or irregular lumps of ice, typically between 5mm and 20mm in diameter, but they can occasionally grow much larger. In fact, the record-breaking hailstone, which fell in Vivian, South Dakota, in 2010, weighed a staggering 877 grams or 2.98 pounds!
These icy projectiles are formed within thunderstorms, where strong updrafts carry water droplets high into the atmosphere. As these droplets ascend, they freeze, colliding and combining with other ice particles. This process continues until the hailstones become too heavy to be supported by the updrafts, and then they plummet towards the earth.
In Southern Maryland, we’re no strangers to hail. While fascinating to some, hail can cause significant damage to property and crops, and can even be dangerous to people and animals. Large hailstones can cause serious injuries and in rare instances, even prove fatal.
We know that sounds a bit scary, but we’re here to help! If you live in Southern Maryland, an area prone to hailstorms, there are several measures you can take to safeguard your property and yourself:
- Stay Indoors: The simplest and most effective way to protect yourself during a hailstorm is to stay indoors. If you have to venture outside, make sure you’re wearing protective gear, like a helmet and goggles.
- Park Smart: If possible, park your car in a garage or under an awning to protect it from hail damage.
- Cover Up: Use a tarp or other protective covering to shield your plants and crops.
In case you do experience hail damage to your property, remember to contact your insurance company promptly. Additionally, reach out to us at Priddy Roofing and Exteriors. We’re your local hail damage repair specialists, with over 10 years of experience between the team. Our team of seasoned professionals can help you restore your property quickly and efficiently.
Preparing for a Hailstorm
Being prepared for a hailstorm can go a long way in minimizing potential damage. Here are some steps you can take:
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and stay alert to any potential hailstorms.
- Secure Loose Objects: Bring patio furniture and other outdoor items indoors. Secure items like garbage cans and lawn furniture that can be blown away by the wind.
- Protect Your Pets: Keep your pets indoors during a hailstorm. Hail can injure them, so it’s best to keep them safe inside.
- Have a Plan: It’s crucial to have an emergency plan in case of a hailstorm. This plan should include a safe shelter and a reliable way to contact emergency services if needed.
During a Hailstorm
If you find yourself caught in a hailstorm, here’s what you can do:
- Find Shelter: Seek a safe shelter, like a sturdy building or an underground structure.
- Avoid Windows: Hail can shatter windows, so steer clear of them during a storm.
- Protect Your Head: If you need to go outside, cover your head with a hat or other protective gear.
- Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye out for falling hailstones and other potential hazards.
After a Hailstorm
Once the storm has passed, it’s time to assess the damage and start the recovery process:
- Assess the Damage: Walk around your property to check for any damage to your home, car, and other belongings.
- Document Everything: Take photos of the damage to assist with your insurance claim.
- Contact Your Insurance: If your property has been damaged, get in touch with your insurance company to file a claim.
- Clean Up: After assessing the damage, start the clean-up process. This could involve picking up hailstones, broken glass, and other debris.
Hail can indeed be a destructive force in Southern Maryland, but by being prepared and taking the right precautions, you can minimize its impact. And remember, if you have experienced hail damage to your property, don’t hesitate to contact us at Priddy Roofing and Exteriors for a free estimate. We’re here to help you weather the storm. Stay safe out there, Marylanders!
