Extreme weather has been hammering the U.S. over the past couple of weeks, and Montana certainly hasn’t been spared from Mother Nature’s wrath. From blistering heat domes to severe storms, the vast majority of the country has recently been affected by a severe weather event of some sort.
The Yellowstone River reached a record level of more than 16 feet of water, leading to devastating floods across the state. The June 13 flooding event devastated roads and isolated entire communities as rapid snowmelt and heavy rain overwhelmed river banks. According to a U.S. Geological Survey news release, the disaster was a 1 in 500-year-event.
Hardin, a small Montana town nestled within Big Horn County, recently experienced strong, straight-line winds in a recent storm that left a trail of debris and property damage in its wake. According to the Big Horn County News, the storm produced wind speeds of around 90 miles per hour, and widespread power outages forced many Hardin businesses to close temporarily.
Storm season is just ramping up, though. Summer, particularly July through August, is the peak season for thunderstorms in Montana. These storms can sometimes be severe, producing hail and powerful winds that can lead to wind damage insurance claims. It’s important to be prepared for severe weather before it strikes in order to mitigate the damage to your property. Securing a public adjuster in Montana is a smart move to make after a storm in order to ensure you don’t lose out on compensation.
Summer heat has just gotten started, too. On average, July is the hottest month in Montana, but the warm season typically lasts from mid-June to mid-September. The warmest temperature ever recorded in the state was a tie at 117 degrees on July 20, 1893, in Glendive, Montana, and at Medicine Lake on July 5, 1937.
PREPARING FOR HIGH WINDS AND STORMS
Stow away your patio furniture, grills, garbage cans and other non-anchored objects inside your home or garage to prevent them from being knocked over or blown away in strong winds.
Before storms strike, inspect your yard and trim any tree branches that are hanging over your home to avoid the possibility of them falling on your house or vehicle. Secure your outdoor pool and shut off the circuit breaker.
Clear your gutters. Ensuring rainwater flows away from your home is important to avoid sustaining water damage.
TIPS FOR STAYING COOL IN HIGH TEMPERATURES
Stay hydrated. Stop and drink some water in regular intervals, even if you’re not feeling thirsty yet. Avoid alcohol or coffee, as they can be dehydrating over time.
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Dark colors have difficulty reflecting the sun’s rays, absorbing more heat in the process.
Eat lighter, chilled foods. Avoid heavy, cream-based sauces, soups or meat-packed dishes and opt for chilled meals, fruit and vegetables.
Use sunscreen. Make sure to apply sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” to keep strong UV rays from harming your skin.
ABOUT OUR TEAM
If you’re looking for a Public Adjuster in Montana, K-Factor Advocates has a skilled team of professionals that specialize in insurance claim negotiation, policy language and interpretation, and claims estimating. The K-Factor team has helped hundreds of clients navigate the challenges of the claims process, securing fair settlements in order to restore their damaged property.
