Summer is a season that comes along with loads of fun activities such as outdoor parties, barbeques, concerts, and picnics. However, it also brings in sporadic thunderstorms, downpours, and torrential rainfall. Chicago is famous for its unpredictable weather that can change in a matter of minutes. It creates a perfect environment for rainstorms that can cause flooding, power outages, and property damage. Hence, it becomes necessary for residents of Chicago to be well-prepared for such emergencies. This article discusses various ways to be prepared for summer rainstorms in Chicago.
Stay Alert of Emergency Notifications
One of the essential steps towards rainstorm preparedness is to stay informed. Keep track of weather forecasts and tune in to your local authorities for breaking news and emergency alerts. Weather alerts are broadcasted on radio, TV, and through smartphone applications. There are several emergency applications available for download on the Android and iOS platforms. These applications provide severe weather warnings, tornado warnings, and flash flood alerts for specific areas. They can also provide safety tips and evacuation instructions if necessary.
Prepare a Survival Kit
A survival kit is a collection of necessary items that can come in handy in case of an emergency or evacuation. When building a survival kit, it’s essential to include items specific to your family’s needs. The basic items that should be included in a survival kit for rainy weather are:
- Non-perishable food items and drinking water
- Battery-operated or hand-crank radio and extra batteries
- Flashlights, lanterns, and candles along with matches or lighter
- First aid kit and any necessary medication
- Portable charger and backup batteries for electronic devices
- Heavy-duty garbage bags and plastic sheets to cover windows in case of a leak
- Clean clothes and blankets
- Important documents such as passports, permits, and insurance policies
Secure Your Property
Heavy thunderstorms and rainfall pose a significant threat to your property. It can cause damage to your home’s foundation, electrical appliances and lead to water leakage. Hence, it becomes essential to secure your property before the upcoming rainy season. Here are some ways to reinforce your property:
- Clear any debris from your gutters and drains to avoid blockage and overflow
- Repair any leakages in the roofs or walls and seal any cracks using waterproof sealants
- Install storm windows or protective films to protect your windows from heavy winds and rainfall
- Ensure all outdoor and garden furniture are secured or brought inside to prevent any damage or blockages
- Unplug all electrical appliances and power supplies as a precautionary measure to avoid damage due to power surges or outages
Plan your Commute
During heavy rains, the streets and roads in Chicago can become slippery and dangerous. Driving in such conditions requires extra precautions and safety routines to avoid any accidents. Here are some ways to make your commute safer during the rainy season:
- Check your tires, brakes, and windshield wipers to ensure they are in good working condition
- Reduce speed and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you
- Avoid parking your car in low-lying areas or under trees to prevent waterlogging or falling branches
- Schedule extra time for your commute, as the traffic may be slower than usual due to roadblocks or waterlogging
- Avoid driving through standing water or flooded areas, as it may pose a hidden danger of hidden debris, open manholes, or downed power lines
Chicago summers are famous for hustling with fun activities. However, they also bring unexpected rain and thunderstorms that can cause chaos if you are not prepared. Hence, it’s always better to prepare for emergencies beforehand to avoid unforeseen consequences. Having a properly working flood control system in place is also a great way to avoid problems.
Staying alert of emergency notifications, preparing a survival kit, securing your property, and planning for your commute are some of the essential steps towards summer rainstorm preparedness. Being prepared will not only ensure your safety during the rains but will also help you enjoy the beautiful summer of Chicago without any worries.