From hurricanes and tornadoes to derechos and severe thunderstorms, windstorms are among the most destructive forms of severe weather. They can damage buildings, topple trees, disrupt power and even put lives at risk in a matter of minutes. While you can’t control when or where a storm strikes, you can take proactive steps to prepare and respond effectively.

Our What You Need to Know About Windstorms guide offers organizations an overview of how to get ready before high winds hit, where to shelter during a storm and what to do afterward to minimize loss and protect people. Below is a preview of what you’ll find inside the guide.

Understanding Watches and Warnings

The first step in preparedness is knowing the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch signals that dangerous weather is possible and you should monitor updates, while a warning means severe weather is occurring nearby and immediate shelter is necessary. The guide explains how these alerts apply across hurricanes, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, helping organizations act quickly when every minute matters.

Preparing Before the Storm

Advance preparation can help reduce the risk of injury and property damage. The resource outlines practical steps such as:

• Hiring a contractor to evaluate whether your building needs additional wind protection.
• Identifying designated safe areas inside your facility.
• Knowing the location of water, gas and electrical shutoffs.
• Preparing personal survival kits with food, water, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and dust masks.
• Establishing an evacuation route in case of hurricanes when time permits.

Seeking Shelter During Severe Weather

When a tornado or severe thunderstorm strikes, the safest places are storm cellars, basements or interior rooms on the lowest level of a building. Bathrooms, closets or areas beneath stairwells can provide additional protection. The guide stresses the importance of staying sheltered for 15 to 30 minutes after the storm passes and avoiding dangerous practices like opening windows.

In the case of hurricanes, local authorities may order evacuations. If evacuation isn’t possible, the guide recommends staying indoors, away from doors and windows, until the storm subsides.

Reducing Tree-Related Risks

One of the most overlooked dangers of windstorms is fallen trees and limbs. The guide notes that tree damage alone causes millions of dollars in losses each year. To minimize this risk, organizations are encouraged to:

• Hire an arborist to assess tree health and storm resistance.
• Prune dead or diseased branches immediately.
• Work with utility companies to trim limbs near power lines.
• Remove uprooted trees completely, rather than resetting larger ones that are more likely to fail again.

Why Download the Full Guide?

This preview touches on only a portion of the strategies available. The complete What You Need to Know About Windstorms guide offers step-by-step recommendations, from understanding storm alerts to securing your property, so you can act decisively when winds begin to rise.