In Kentucky, there are unique weather risks that plague local businesses and cause extensive damage. Straight-line winds accompany severe thunderstorms, and they can severely damage and decimate commercial structures in the greater Ashland area. Along the broader eastern Kentucky area, businesses are vulnerable to sudden wind damage due to open terrain, older infrastructure, and seasonal storms.
Business owners worried about the costs of downtime, repairs, and customer disruptions after storm damage should educate themselves on how to handle wind damage. There are many practical, actionable steps property owners can take to mitigate damage in the immediate aftermath of a storm. However, at times, professional services may be required. If you need help with your Kentucky business straight-line winds restoration, ServiceMaster Fire and Water Restoration by A-1 is here to help. Call us today at 606-230-3657 to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation with a member of our team.
What Are Straight-Line Winds and Why Are They So Dangerous?
Straight-line winds are defined as non-rotating, strong winds caused by thunderstorms. Straight-line winds can cause severe damage to properties, tear apart roofs, launch debris into buildings and vehicles, and break power lines. Wind speeds can reach up to 100 miles per hour. At its highest speeds, straight-line winds can topple trees and decimate commercial structures.
In Ashland, a straight-line wind is nothing to take lightly. Spring and summer storm seasons can produce high wind speeds that may leave property owners grasping at straws and searching for answers. Because straight-line winds often catch businesses off guard, it can be worrisome having to find help at such short notice.
Know Your Local Risk Factors in Ashland, KY
The city of Ashland’s position near the Ohio River makes local businesses prone to fast-moving storm systems. Commercial areas near open land (such as the Industrial Parkway corridor) may face higher wind exposure, and older buildings in historic districts are especially vulnerable to wind damage. If you own a business near tree-lined streets and aged infrastructure, you may be at risk of secondary damage such as falling branches, power outages, and flying debris.
Strengthen Your Building’s Exterior
If you are hoping to avoid severe structural damage during straight-line winds, there are steps you can take to fortify your business. Inspect and reinforce your roof, especially if your business has a flat roof that is vulnerable to uplift and dislodgment. Identify and secure loose siding, signage, and exterior fixtures like HVAC units. Install wind-resistant doors and windows or storm shutters where possible, and trim overhanging tree branches near your building. Lastly, anchor outdoor furniture, dumpsters, and light structures that could become wind-borne during high wind speeds.
Protect Your Inventory and Equipment
Protect your business’s assets by storing valuable inventory away from windows and doors. Use shelving restraints or anchors to secure heavy stock and equipment, and back up important business data offsite or in a protected cloud server. If you have valuable electronics in your business, develop a process to quickly move portable equipment to safer areas when a storm is on its way. To prevent water damage, consider waterproof covers for sensitive equipment in case wind damage leads to water intrusion.
Create a Business Continuity and Emergency Plan
In addition to protecting our business’s valuables and equipment, property owners should also establish a business continuity and emergency plan. Assign roles to staff for pre-storm preparations and train them on securing property, checking supplies, and safely evacuating the premises. Establish a communication plan to alert employees and customers about closure or emergency actions, and be sure to send periodic updates as conditions change.
Always keep emergency supplies on hand. Flashlights, first aid kits, and backup chargers can be lifesavers during a. power outage, but sometimes, they may not be enough to maintain a productive workplace. Develop remote work capabilities if wind damage leads to severe damage or temporary closures, and identify trusted local contractors you can call quickly after a storm.
Stay Informed and Take Early Action
Sign up for Kentucky weather alerts from the National Weather Service and monitor local Ashland media outlets for severe storm warnings. Take wind advisories seriously and act early to secure your business before winds pick up. Practice emergency drills so your team knows exactly what to do when a storm is imminent, and review your insurance policy to ensure wind damage is adequately covered.
Trusted Support When the Winds Hit Hard
Even with preparation, wind damage can still happen when you least expect it. Kentucky’s unpredictable weather can cause complications when they are least expected, and the ensuing damage can leave a business in peril for weeks to come. Our local experts are ready to help you recover quickly and safely, and we’re here to help if your commercial structure experiences damage.
ServiceMaster Fire and Water Restoration by A-1 is ready to help you recover from damages caused by straight-line winds. We understand the stress business owners feel when facing costly repairs and downtime, and we offer peace of mind through reliable wind damage cleanup, board-up services, and water damage restoration efforts. Our services minimize disruptions and help business reopen their doors sooner than expected.
Let’s Keep Your Kentucky Business Standing Strong
The importance of wind damage preparation and repair cannot be overstated. If you own or operate a business in Ashland, stay proactive before Kentucky’s storm season hits full force, and know what to do if straight-line winds affect your structure. If winds ever leave your business in need of fast, professional care, local help is just a call away. Call ServiceMaster Fire and Water Restoration by A-1 today at 606-230-3657 to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.
