Storm Damage and Cleanup with SERVPRO of Victoria

8/9/2024 (Permalink)

Storms can strike with little warning, leaving behind a trail of damage that can overwhelm any property owner. From wind-blown debris to flooding and roof damage, the aftermath of a storm requires immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. We specialize in storm damage cleanup and restoration, providing you with peace of mind during these challenging times.

Our team of experts is equipped to handle all aspects of storm damage, from water extraction and drying to debris removal and structural repairs. We start with a comprehensive assessment of your property to determine the extent of the damage, then implement a tailored plan to restore your home or business quickly and efficiently.

With SERVPRO of Victoria, you can trust that your property is in capable hands. We’re committed to restoring your property to its pre-storm condition, ensuring that you can get back to normal as soon as possible.

Contact (361) 433-5357

National Preparedness Month

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

Every September, National Preparedness Month is recognized.  The theme for this years campaign is “The life you’ve built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family”.    As the month is winding down, it is important to us at SERVPRO of Sugar Land that it is important to stay prepared for disasters as we see hurricanes start to pick up.    

Take this time to create a plan and know what to do in case of an emergency.  Mother Nature has created multiple large disasters around the Sugar Land area.  It is essential to keep your emergency contact list up-to-date and have alternative communication methods set up in case traditional means are affected. For more information about staying prepared, visit www.ready.gov/september.  Expect the unexpected and remember it is never too early to be prepared.  Keep in mind that disasters can strike when you least expect them.  SERVPRO of Victoria is always prepared, to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

Understanding the Difference Between Hurricanes and Tornadoes

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes our community, SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help!

Hurricanes and tornadoes are similar in that both form spiral shapes in warm, damp air when winds blow and collide in opposite directions.  However, hurricanes develop over water (tropical oceans), while tornadoes form over land—the winds of a hurricane swirling around in a spiral at speeds up to 200mph.  In the middle of the spiral is the eye, a calm center four to twenty-five miles wide, surrounded by wind and rain.  A tornado is a tall, funnel-shaped spiraling whirlwind extending from the cloud base to the earth.  A tornado can reach up to 2,000 feet high.  In the middle is an eye of descending air, surrounded by a strong upward current that “sucks up” or “wipes out” everything in its path.  The winds of a tornado can rotate up to 300 mph and move forward at 40 mph.  Tornadoes can travel hundreds of miles before subsiding.  Hurricanes and tropical storms can have a lifespan of days, while tornadoes are rather short-lived, typically lasting only minutes.  The damage resulting from a hurricane can occur from storm surges, heavy rain, high winds, or flooding or high winds.  Tornadoes primarily cause destruction as a result of high winds. 

Some tornadoes form as the result of a hurricane or tropical cyclone.  Tropical cyclones at landfall can provide ideal conditions for tornado formation.  For example, in 1992 hurricane Andrew spawned several tornadoes throughout the South after crossing the Gulf of Mexico.  Hurricane Harvey also spawned tornadoes after landfall.  Though fewer tornadoes occur in tropical depressions and tropical storms, there are some exceptions.

As hurricane season is approaching, following your local news source for up-to-date information on weather situations is important.  SERVPRO of Victoria is here for you! Give us a call for your storm damage needs at (361) 573-6000.

Hurricane Preparedness Week

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Be prepared and add SERVPRO of Victoria to your emergency contact list. Our team is always here for our community when disaster strikes!

May 1st-7th marks National Preparedness Hurricane week.  Living near the coast of Texas, it's important that citizens are ready for hurricane season, which begins June 1st.   These plans should include having a clear plan of knowing what to do before the storm hits and who to contact after a hurricane strikes.   Steps to consider:

Determine the cause the hurricane may cause

Develop an evacuation plan

Assemble or replenish supplies

Strengthen your home

Write out a complete plan

SERVPRO of Victoria is ready with the proper equipment and trained professionals to restore the aftermath caused by a hurricane.  Remember to give us a call at SERVPRO of Victoria - (361) 573-6000. Our team truly cares for our community and we are always here to help when disaster strikes!

Spring Weather Safety

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Be prepared, disaster strikes when you least expect it!

Bad weather happens year-round. Creating a plan now can help you stay prepared and ready for any future storms that may be brewing this spring.   Understanding what to do can help you prepare and create a plan during spring storms. 

During severe weather, knowing your “safe place” is the most essential preparedness activity to save your life from server weather.  No matter where you know where to go if severe weather approaches. 

Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs, winds over 100 mph, and tornadoes.  Severe weather is a common spring hazard.  For more information about Spring Safety Awareness Week, please visit: https://www.weather.gov/wrn/spring-safety

When storms hit Sugar Land, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.  Give SERVPRO of Victoria a call to help your storm damage needs (361) 573-6000

Wind Damage

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Storms may occur with little to no warning sometimes which can potentially make it harder to prepare for.   High winds can be an effect after thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes can turn small objects and debris into dangerous projectiles. When these items hit buildings, it can cause small to big structural damages. However, by preparing now, these structural damages can be kept to a minimum. 

• Cover windows and doors
• Check for weak areas
• Inspect the roof
• Maintain the landscaping

Severe weather can cause devastating damages to a home or business.  If severe damages strike your property, SERVPRO of Victoria can help minimize the cause of the damage.  Our team of experts has the experience and equipment to help during these difficult times.  We are dedicated to helping you make it “Like it never even happened.”

Types of Flooding

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can occur at any time of the year, especially around the coastal region of Texas.  However, did you know that there are different types of floods?   There are several kinds of floods, and SERVPRO of Victoria feels it is important to educate our customers, so they can make informed decisions on how to handle the situation. 

Flash floods- most dangerous kind of flood, combining nearly

River flood – Occurs when a river overflows its banks.  A common cause for this is tropical systems (hurricanes, tropical storms, etc.) or an abundance amount of rain.

Coastal flooding – this is the result of strong onshore winds pushing on water from the ocean or bay.  These can be classified as storm surges and may greatly affect homes along the coast.

Urban flooding – floods are due to the lack of drainage in an urban area. 

SERVPRO of Victoria is here for any of your weather-related remediation needs, give our team of trained professionals a call!

Are you prepared for Tropical Storm Nicholas?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help when disaster strikes.

Tropical Storm Nicholas is expected to bring heavy rain.  Are you prepared?  SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help our community. Our team has a few tips for you to follow in case an event was to happen:

• Be prepared, create an evacuation plan
• Learn and identify different evacuation routes to be able to evacuate quickly
• If public transportation is relied on, contact the local emergency management for evacuation information
• Move to higher ground if there is a chance of flash flooding
• Driving during high rainfalls can be extremely dangerous.  Stay updated by checking service announcements through the National Weather Service.

SERVPRO of Victoria specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  As we continue to keep an eye out for Tropical Storm Nicholas, our team is highly trained and ready if disaster strikes.   Our team uses specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Since SERVPRO of Victoria is locally owned and operated, our team is able to respond quickly with the right resources, which is extremely important when disaster strikes. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

When storms hit Victoria, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (361) 573 -6000.

Be Prepared with SERVPRO of Victoria when a Storm Strikes!

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can approach fast. SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help our community!

Storms do not wait for a convent time to strike or check our schedules. Storms often come at the most inconvenient time. This is why SERVPRO of Victoria is here for you 24 hours, 7 days a week!  Our team does not pass up the opportunity to help out our community during emergency storm situations.

Whether the storm is a spring thunderstorm or a major flood, our trained professionals are ready for action! It is extremely important to take immediate action when disaster strikes, to prevent additional damage to the property.

When storms hit the Victoria area we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1.700 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.  If you have any questions regarding potential water or storm damage in your home, give our trusted train professionals a call at (361) 573-6000

Spring forward and be Prepared

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

No matter how big or small the disaster is, SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help!

Spring forward this year and be prepared for any potential natural disasters that may come our way!  The National Weather System (NWS) approach is to advise all citizens to be prepared for potential extreme weather especially since bad weather happens year-round. 

During severe weather, knowing your “safe place” is the most essential preparedness activity to save your life from server weather.  No matter where you know where to go if severe weather approaches. 

Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs, winds over 100 mph, and tornadoes.  Severe weather is a common spring hazard.  For more information about Spring Safety Awareness Week, please visit: https://www.weather.gov/wrn/spring-safety

When storms hit Victoria, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. Here at SERVPRO of Victoria, we can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.  We're a 24/7 service and always "Ready for whatever happens.®"

Tips to Prevent Storm Damages

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Disaster strikes sometimes when we least expect it. Stay prepared!

Mother Nature has the ability to cause extensive and expensive damage to your home or business as some of us may have experience from the winter storm back in February.

Here are a few tips to prevent storm damage to your property

• CLEAN THE GUTTERS down sprouts can be clogged by dead leaves or branches.  Consider cleaning the gutters twice a year.
• Inspect your roofs – give the roof a good look for any loose or missing shingles. If there are damages spotted it is encouraged to get this addressed and fixed immediately.  By taking immediate action, this will help prevent further damage such as future water or mold damages.
• Check the trees on your property – tree decay, soil erosion, heavy rains, and windstorm can cause a tree to fall.  By keeping an eye out for these signs and help pruning trees can avoid possible future damage.

Let SERVPRO of Victoria keep your home or business safe from storm and water damage. Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.  Give our team a call!

Rain vs. Flood Damage

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Do you understand the difference between rain damage and flood damage?

Rain damage is caused by falling water. A leaky roof or window can cause rain to intrude into your home. Gutters and downspouts can also be a big contributing factor to rain damage. It is very important to clean your gutters and downspouts to keep the rain away from your walls and windows.

Flood damage is caused by rising water. Improper grading, failing drainage, or rising creek water are all examples of how flood damage can occur in your home. Flood damage can also cause cracks to your foundation allowing excess water to intrude into your home.

SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to helping you!  Do not hesitate to give our experts a call when disaster strikes! We want to help you restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

Flood Safety

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to help our community when disaster strikes!

As we move into the heart of hurricane season, we all need to be mindful that September is a busy month for both Tropical Storms and Hurricanes. Even with a slow start to the season, Mother Nature can change her mind very abruptly!  How are you prepared for a hurricane?  What about what comes after a hurricane?  It is common to see a storm with heavy downpours of rain causing flooding in the most protected neighborhoods.  Do you know what to do during a flood?  SERVPRO of Victoria has a few tips for you to follow in case an event was to happen:

• Be prepared, create an evacuation plan
• Learn and identify different evacuation routes to be able to evacuate quickly
• If public transportation is relied on, contact the local emergency management for evacuation information
• Moving water above two feet can knock you down; one foot of water can move vehicles away
• Move to higher ground if there is a chance of flash flooding
• Driving during high rainfalls can be extremely dangerous.  Stay updated by checking service announcements through the National Weather Service.

For more information about flooding, visit https://www.ready.gov/floods.  Be proactive and create an evacuation plan to keep safe. It is very important to stay updated when it comes to natural disasters.  SERVPRO of Victoria values our community; we are here to help when disaster strikes! 

National Preparedness Month

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

September is known as National Preparedness Month at SERVPRO of Victoria to help bring awareness to our local communities.  This awareness event is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the 2020 theme is "Disasters don't wait.  Make your plan today."  This program encourages everyone to take advantage of the information provided by FEMA because advanced planning is critical in dealing with and recovering from unexpected disasters, such as flooding and hurricanes.  

Take this time to create a plan and know what to do in case of an emergency.  Mother Nature has created multiple large disasters around the Victoria area.  It is important to keep your emergency contact list up-to-date and have alternative communication methods set up in case traditional means are affected. If you would like more information about staying prepared, visit www.ready.gov/september.  Expect the unexpected and remember it is never too early to be prepared.  Keep in mind that disasters can strike when you least expect it.  SERVPRO of Victoria is always prepared, to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

Understanding Thunderstorms

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared for any future storms that may be brewing this spring.

Victoria has seen quite a bit of rainfall this year.  By preparing for a storm and putting a plan in place now, this can help you get ready for any future storms that may be brewing this spring.  The list below defines the different kinds of definition put out by the National Weather Service.  By understanding the different, this can help prepare for a plan:

Severe Thunderstorm

A thunderstorm that produces a tornado, winds of at least 58 mph (50 knots), and/or hail at least ¾" in diameter. Structural wind damage may imply the occurrence of a severe thunderstorm. A thunderstorm wind equal to or greater than 40 mph (35 knots) and/or hail of at least ½" is defined as approaching severe.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

This is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. The size of the watch can vary depending on the weather situation. They are usually issued for a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They are normally issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather. During the watch, people should review safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

This is issued when either a severe thunderstorm is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or a spotter reports a thunderstorm producing hail 3/4 inch or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour; therefore, people in the affected area should seek safe shelter immediately. Severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes with little or no warning. Lightning frequency is not a criterion for issuing a severe thunderstorm warning. They are usually issued for one hour. They can be issued without a Severe Thunderstorm Watch being already in effect.

When storms come through Victoria, Texas, SERVPRO of Victoria will use the resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. Our team can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.  Give SERVPRO of Victoria a call to help your storm damage needs (361) 573-6000!

Wind Damage

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help!

Storms may occur with little to no warning sometimes which can potentially make it harder to prepare for.   High winds can be an effect after thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes can turn small objects and debris into dangerous projectiles. When these items hit buildings, it can cause small to big structural damages. However, by preparing now, these structural damages can be kept to a minimum. 

• Cover windows and doors
• Check for weak areas
• Inspect the roof
• Maintain the landscaping

Severe weather can cause devastating damages to a home or business.  If sever damages strike your property, SERVPRO of Victoria can help minimize the cause of the damage.  Our team of experts has the experience and equipment to help during these difficult times.  We are dedicated to helping you make it “Like it never even happened.”

How to Prepare for A Hailstorm

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Stay prepared to help prevent costly repairs!

To reduce hailstorm damage to your home, take a look at your roof now, especially if you haven’t examined it in a while.   Closely look at the shingles to see if there are any missing or worn and curled or aging roof; consider getting the roof replaced before the hail season begins. 

During a hailstorm, stay indoors.  To prevent and avoid flying debris, close the curtains or blinds and stay away from skylights, windows, or glass doors to avoid potential broken glass.  Park your vehicle under a covered area or inside a garage. 

Hail storms may not last long but they can cause real damage. If you have experience with hail damage that causes problems to your home or business, give our team a call.  SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help when mother nature strikes! 

Tornado Tips from SERVPRO of Victoria

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared in case of a Tornado emergency!

It is important to understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning to help protect you and your loved ones.  

When a tornado watch is issued, this means a tornado is possible in the area.

When a tornado warning is issued, this means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed toward your area.

Tornadoes are dangerous and can be spawned by a thunderstorm or produced as a result of a hurricane.  If a tornado strikes your home or area, know what to do.  SERVPRO of Victoria has provided a few tips to help keep our community safe!

• Wait for an all-clear announcement from the National Weather Service or local news before leaving your home, business, or shelter.
• Be very cautious and on the watch for downed utility lines.  Do not approach or touch downed utility lines. 
• Check water heater and appliances for damage.  For safety purposes, use a flashlight, not matches or candles. 
• Use bottled water or boil tap water before drinking until you are told the water supply is safe. 
• Driving may be hazardous due to debris in the streets, downed power lines, and flooding.  If flooding is a potential hazard, stay away from the rivers and streams.
• Inspect car, home, or business both inside and outside for damage.  List any damages that you can find and document the damages with pictures if possible.
• Walkthrough your home or business and conduct an inventory of damaged items and belongings.

Lightning Truths and Myths

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victoria is always here to help during storm emergencies.

It's important that we know our facts about the weather patterns to prepare for any future emergencies.  Learn the common myths and facts about lightning!

Myth: If it is not raining, then there is no danger from lightning.  
Fact:  Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from rainfall. 

Myth: Rubber soles of shoes or rubber tires on a car protect you from being struck
Fact: Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide no protection from lightning.  The steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.  Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

Myth: “Heat lightning” occurs after very hot summer days and poses no threat.  
Fact:  “Heat lightning” is a team used to describe lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard.

When disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO of Victoria is here to help you.  Give our team a call (361) 573-6000. 

2019 National Preparedness Month

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Create a checklist. Prepared, Not Scared!

September is known as National Preparedness Month at SERVPRO of Victoria to help bring awareness to our local communities.  This awareness event is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the 2019 theme is "Prepared, Not Scared".  This program encourages everyone to take advantage of the information provided by FEMA because advanced planning is critical in dealing with and recovering from unexpected disasters.  

Now is the perfect time to create a plan and know what to do in case of an emergency.  Mother Nature has created multiple large disasters around Victoria.  It is important to keep your emergency contact list up-to-date and have alternative communication methods set up in case traditional means are affected. If you would like more information about staying prepared, visit www.ready.gov/september.  It is never too early to be prepared.  Remember disasters strike when you least expect it.  SERVPRO of Victoria is always prepared, to help make it "Like it never even happened."  Give our team a call if disaster strikes your home or business (361) 573-6000!

Types of Flooding

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding can occur at any time of the year, especially around the coastal region of Texas.  However, did you know that there are different types of floods?   There are several kinds of floods, and SERVPRO of Victoria feel it is important to educate our customers, so they can make informed decisions on how to handle the situation. 

Flash floods- most dangerous kind of flood, combining nearly

River flood – Occurs when a river overflows its banks.  A common cause for this is tropical systems (hurricanes, tropical storms, etc.) or an abundance amount of rain.

Coastal flooding – this is the result of strong onshore winds pushing on water from the ocean or bay.  These can be classified as storm surges and may greatly affect homes along the coast.

Urban flooding – floods are due to the lack of drainage in an urban area. 

SERVPRO of Victoria is here for any of your weather-related remediation needs, give our team of trained professionals a call! (361) 573-6000.

Prevent Storm Damages from Your Home or Business

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mother Nature has the ability to cause extensive and expensive damage to your home or business. Down here in Victoria, it doesn’t take much to bring trees and powerlines down.

Here are a few tips to prevent storm damage to your property

• CLEAN THE GUTTERS down sprouts can be clogged by dead leaves or branches.  Consider cleaning the gutters twice a year.
  
• Inspect your roofs – give the roof a good look for any loose or missing shingles. If there are damages spotted it is encouraged to get this addressed and fixed immediately.  By taking immediate action, this will help prevent further damage such as future water or mold damages.
  
• Check the trees on your property – tree decay, soil erosion, heavy rains, and windstorm can cause a tree to fall.  By keeping an eye out for these signs and help pruning trees can avoid possible future damage.
  

Let SERVPRO of Victoria keep your home or business safe from storm and water damage. Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.  Give our team a call (361) 573-6000. 

Winter Storm

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Does this seem like the wettest winter in Victoria?  Temperatures are lower, more rain has fallen, and heavier winds have overtaken Sugar Land.   If we recall correctly, it has been a long time since we’ve seen these kinds of weather patterns.  While we have no control over the weather, we do have the opportunity to keep the weather from affecting our homes or business.  To help prevent weather-related damages from hurting your home or business, apply some of the following tips to protect your property:

• Keep gutters clear of leaves, sticks and other debris to help ensure it can drain properly. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the home or business
• Wrap water pipes in your crawl spaces with insulation sleeves to slow heat transfer and prevent freezing
• If you have a fireplace, keep the flue closed when you're not using it
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets connected to pipes that run through unheated or unprotected spaces 

Give SERVPRO of Victoria a call if you have any additional questions.  Our team is always here to help when disaster strikes!  

2018 National Preparedness Month

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

September is known as National Preparedness Month at SERVPRO of Victoria to help bring awareness to our local communities.  This awareness event is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the theme this year is "Don't wait, communicate".  This program encourages everyone to take advantage of the information provided by FEMA because advanced planning is critical in dealing with and recovering from unexpected disasters.  

Now is the perfect time to make a plan and know what to do in case of an emergency.  Mother Nature has created multiple large disasters around the Houston area this year.  It is important to keep your emergency contact list up-to-date and have alternative communication methods set up in case traditional means are affected. If you would like more information about staying prepared, visit www.ready.gov/september.  It is never too early to be prepared.  Remember disasters strike when you least expect it.  SERVPRO of Victoria is always prepared, to help make it "Like it never even happened".

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Not all hurricanes are destructive or deadly.  But it's always a good idea to be prepared especially during prime time hurricane season. They are known as one of the most violent wind storms and should not be messed with. Know the difference between the stages of hurricanes and damages they may cause.

Hurricane Categories 
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale rates a hurricane's intensity using wind speed and storm surge, which is the abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or other intense storm. The scale also estimates the potential damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall.

Category 1
Sustained winds of 74-85 mph.  Dangerous winds occur and may cause some damage. Damage primarily to unanchored mobile homes, shrubbery, and trees along with some coastal road flooding and minor pier damage.

Category 2
Winds of  96-110 mph.  Extremely dangerous winds and will cause extensive damage. Roofing, door and window damage to buildings; Considerable damage to shrubbery and trees, mobile homes, poorly constructed signs, and piers.

Category 3
Devastating damage will occur. Winds of 111-129 mph. Structural damage to small residences and utility buildings; foliage blew off trees and large trees blown down; mobile homes destroyed.

Category 4
Catastrophic damage occurs. Sustained winds of 130 - 156 mph. Extensive damage to doors, windows and lower floors of shoreline houses; total roof failures on small residences; shrubs, trees, and all signs blown down; mobile homes completely destroyed.

Category 5
Catastrophic damage occurs.  Winds of 157 mph or higher.  Complete roof failure on many buildings and some complete building failures with small utility buildings blown over or away; severe and extensive window and door damage; mobile homes destroyed.

One Year After Hurricane Harvey

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Most Texans remember August 25^th, 2017.  This date marked the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey, the category 4 hurricane that deeply affected the great state of Texas one year ago.  Hurricane Harvey dumped around 50 inches of rain in parts of the Houston area, flooding thousands of homes and killing more than 80 people. The devastation was swift, and the recovery is far from over.  SERVPRO of Victoria was proud to come to the aid of the people whose homes were damaged by the hurricane.  The water damage was catastrophic. The professionals at SERVPRO of Victoria worked very hard, especially during that hurricane.  Our team is dedicated and will always be here for you during any a storm...faster to any disaster to help you through when disaster strikes!

Flooding Safety

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

It is common to see a storm with heavy down pours of rain causing flooding in the most protected neighborhoods. Do you know what to do during a flood? SERVPRO of Victoria has a few tips for you to follow in case an event was to happen:

• Be prepared, create an evacuation plan
• Learn and identify different evacuation routes to be able to evacuate quickly
• If public transportation is relied on, contact the local emergency management for evacuation information
• Turn Around, Don't Drown! ® Moving water above two feet can knock you down; one foot of water can move vehicles away
• Move to higher ground if there is a chance of flash flooding
• Driving during high rain falls can be extremely dangerous. Stay update by checking service announcements through the National Weather Service.

For more information about flooding, visithttps://www.ready.gov/floods. Be proactive and create an evacuation plan to keep safe. It is very important to stay up date when it comes to natural disasters. SERVPRO of Victoria values our community; we are here to help when disaster strikes!

Winter Storms in Texas

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

Usually, Texas does not endure freezing cold temperatures.  However, Texas has been going through a flurry of weather changes in the past few weeks.  Temperatures have been dropping and we are here to help give you tips on what to do to protect your home during the extreme cold weather. 

• Wrap and insulate any exposed pipes located outside or in unheated areas of the home
• Clear out all gutters to prevent ice from forming for any kind of water damage
• Seal any type of leaks that can allow cold air inside near any water pipes especially in unheated parts of the house  
•     If possible, drain water in your yard irrigation systems as this is a common place for water to freeze and cause damage
• Cover vents around the foundation of your home
• Bring your potted plants inside or cover them to protect them from freezing temperatures 

SERVPRO of Victoria is dedicated to help you.  If you face any winter storm damages, give our team a call (361) 573-6000 and we’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Exterior Pipe Safety Tips

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

It’s the holiday season and with that comes cooler holiday temperatures.  As the temperatures occasionally drop below freezing here in Texas, consider the safety of your home and prevent disaster striking by not leaving any pipes exposed.  Here are a few tips to consider to avoid any busted pipes this holiday season:

• Insulate pipes, especially those close to outside walls, attics or crawl spaces where the chance of freezing is greatest
• Seal air leaks surrounding or near pipes
• Disconnect all outdoor hoses and turn off water to exterior faucets and sprinkler systems
• Keep heat at 55 degrees F. or higher even when you are out of town
• During a cold spell turn on both hot and cold faucets near outside walls to allow a small trickle of water to run during the night
• If you need to be away from home, drain your water system before you go
• Identify the locations of shutoff valves so that you are prepared to stop the flow of water as soon as possible when a pipe bursts

Harvey Strengthens to a Hurricane

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

STORM ALERT: Tropical storm Harvey is now a hurricane.  It is forecast to be a category 3 when it hits land fall. Take action and be prepared!  Know what to do in case of an emergency, create a kit,  construct an emergency plan for you and your family and be sure to stay informed.  Below is a list of basic supplies just in case disaster may strike:

• One gallon of water per person
• Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable foods
• First Aid Kit
• Flash Light
• Whistle to signal for help
• Battery operated radio
• Cash
• Cell phones

Additional emergency supplies:

• Prescription medicine
• Pet food
• Local maps
• Important documents
• Emergency references
• Blankets and/or sleeping bags

Our team of professionals is "ready for whatever happens". Give SERVPRO of Victoria a call (361) 573-6000 if you experience flooding or storm related damages.