Here’s How Knowing Emergency Alerts Could Keep You Safer | SERVPRO® of Northwest Bergen

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Know who to call when the next storm hits, call SERVPRO of Northwest Bergen 201-236-2400.

In our country, we use at least 42 different kinds of weather alerts, split between seven categories that cover every kind of weather event. This is too much for one person to know off the top of his or her head, especially when panicking during an extreme storm.

One thing that’s very important to know is the meanings of warnings, watches and advisories that could be issued for our area. Knowing these can help you decide what the next step is quicker, giving you more time to prepare.

It’s important to know about all kinds of weather, but it’s crucial for you to be aware of the most common events that we see here in New Jersey.

<h4alerts-are-issued">How Alerts Are Issued

Do you know how weather alerts are issued and planned? Well, the process is complex and affected by multiple factors. Weather forecasts make a prediction, but the severity, location and size of the storm require a lot of data to understand.

The National Weather Service is the main organization responsible for forecasting, collecting data and issuing warnings. They have split the country into six categories, each with its own headquarters, along with hundreds of local offices. Here in Bergen, we fall under the Eastern Region headquarters, which allows us to have more specialized alerts.

The NWS has many employees, including meteorologists and astronomers who collect data and formulate forecasts for the country. They use information from satellites, seismic meters and even the sun’s activity to create the most accurate predictions possible.

<h4most-important-alerts-to-understand">The Most Important Alerts to Understand

The most basic knowledge that everyone should have is the difference between a “watch” and a “warning.” These terms are used in virtually every extreme weather event, including thunderstorms, winter storms and floods.

A watch is telling you that a storm is closing in, and it has the potential to be dangerous for the people in your area. However, these alerts are often issued for large areas, with the main goal of keeping everyone up to date with the current situation.

A warning is only issued when danger is approaching your area quickly. These alerts are typically only for a single city or county, and they are highly specific. When a warning is issued for your area, you should begin taking immediate measures to protect your home and yourself.

It’s also very important for you to understand the weather that we see here in New Jersey, and in Northwest Bergen specifically. Having this information can help you prepare for the events that will likely put us at risk. We see an incredible 48 inches of rain per year, which is approximately 24% more than the national average.

<h4your-home-during-a-storm">Protecting Your Home During a Storm

Knowing what your local weather alerts mean is the best way to stay safe during extreme weather events, but you can also take action and reduce the damage done to your home with a few simple steps.

Clearing your gutters and securing your outdoor furniture can really help you slow storm damage, as clogged gutters can easily cause flooding during a thunderstorm.

Additionally, you should create an emergency plan for your household to help keep everyone safe from disaster.

Once the storm is gone, take plenty of photos and videos of any damage your home has suffered. Then, call SERVPRO of Northwest Bergen, since we’re available ²⁴⁄₇ to assist you with all cleanup and restoration.

As we said previously, the more you know about the weather risks in your area, the better you can prepare for them. Stay aware of the emergency alerts, and follow the guideline from your local officials for the best chance of weathering the next storm.

Experienced storm damage to your home or property? Contact us today for a quick response!