Monsoons and flash flooding are something that not all of the world has to deal with, but those that are in the path of a monsoon need to be prepared. Monsoon season comes every year and those that are prepared for it can weather the storm with minimal damage. For those that are not prepared however, loss of home and property and even loss of life are a potential. Knowing how to prepare for monsoon flooding is a must if you live anywhere that these dangerous storms may occur.
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1. Roofing-
monsoons come with large amounts of rain and wind and without a roof that is free of leaks and secure, you can end up with water inside the home that not only damages the roof and the subroof, but also that damages the home inside. Dripping roofs can end in extensive damage inside the home as well as damage to the items within the home and your need to replace them. Before monsoon season starts you should take the time to check your roof and make sure it is free of leaks.
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2. Drainage-
the drainage of your property also makes a huge difference. Homes with poor drainage can get damage that is incredibly costly. Pooling water is a risk to foundations and can lead to erosion of your land as well. It is crucial that you have proper drainage around your home to protect both your home and the land that it is built on.
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3. Plants and Surrounding Foliage-
it is also a good idea to take a survey of your home and the plants and trees that surround it. Monsoons not only bring torrential rain, they also bring hail and strong winds which can bring trees down on your home and can also bring branches down. Before monsoon season begins you should take the time to trim trees and remove any branches that may be potentially blown down as well as removing any dead trees that may fall. You should also stake young trees and make sure you check to see how the soil around the base of your trees looks as well.
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4. Clean out Gutters and Downspouts-
you also need to make sure that gutters and downspouts are free of debris so that water can be taken out and away from your home as needed during the rains. Downspouts that are clogged and gutters that are full can result in water being deposited by the base of your home which is a danger to your foundation and to the ground your home is built on. Clean out gutters and downspouts prior to the rainy season to make sure that they can do their job when the rain comes.
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5. Find a place for your car-
the last thing you may want to do is make sure that if you have a garage or a carport that there is a place to park your car. Monsoons come on fast and you may not have time to clear a space if a storm is coming. You should have a way to protect your vehicle and anything outside that needs to be brought in so that when a storm hits, you do not have to go outside in it to try and create a space for your car and other outside belongings. Keeping a space in your garage or carport clean for your car is the best way to protect it during monsoon season.
The last thing you need to keep in mind this monsoon season is to make sure you pay attention to the warnings. If you see a storm is coming, make sure you get to shelter immediately and that you stay put until it passes.