Tornado Season Brings Property Damage Across Many Parts of the U.S.

Although tornadoes are more common in certain parts of the United States, they have been reported in all 50 states.  On average, tornadoes cause 70 fatalities and 1,500 injuries in the U.S. each year, but some years see much higher numbers.  In a typical year, over $1 billion dollars in property damage is due to tornadoes.
 
Although some properties impacted by a tornado may experience complete destruction, many more survive the twister with anywhere from minor to significant damages.  They may be left with issues due to strong winds, hail, heavy rain and even flooding when roofs, walls, windows and plumbing are destroyed or damaged. 
 
Many of these properties can be rebuilt and repaired, but there are potential hazards aside from live electrical wires and leaking gas lines that people need to be aware.  They include the following:
 

• Mold can begin to grow in as short as 24 to 48 hours on many types of building materials and household belongings when they become wet.  It’s important to begin drying wet materials as soon as it is safe to do so.  Some nonporous materials can be cleaned and salvaged, but most porous materials should be discarded if mold growth is present. 
• Water damage and flooding caused by a tornado can bring not only rainwater into a property, but also viruses, bacteria and chemical contaminants 
• Asbestos can be found in many materials that were used in older homes and buildings.  When removing debris, these asbestos fibers can become aerosolized.  Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause respiratory disease, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
• Lead is a concern because it is a highly toxic metal. The disturbance or removal of materials containing lead-based paints from properties may result in elevated concentrations of lead dust in the air.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

Contact via E-mail