Thunderstorms and Lightning Cause Property Damage in Beckley?

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

We mitigate storm damage 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring storm damage in the Beckley area since 1999. Thunderstorms can cause damage to properties for several reasons:

Lightning Strikes: Lightning is a discharge of electricity that occurs during thunderstorms. When lightning strikes a building or a structure, it can cause fires, structural damage, and electrical damage.

Strong Winds: Thunderstorms often bring strong winds, sometimes in the form of downdrafts or microbursts. These winds can cause trees to fall, branches to break, and debris to become airborne, potentially damaging roofs, windows, siding, and other parts of buildings.

Hail: Some thunderstorms produce hail, balls, or irregular lumps of ice ranging in size from small pellets to large stones. Hailstones can impact buildings with considerable force, causing damage to roofs, windows, vehicles, and outdoor structures such as sheds or carports.

Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Thunderstorms can produce heavy rainfall quickly, leading to flash flooding in low-lying areas, urban areas with poor drainage, and regions with saturated soil. Floodwater can enter buildings, causing water damage to floors, walls, furniture, and belongings.

Tornadoes: Although not all thunderstorms produce tornadoes, they can cause catastrophic damage to buildings and infrastructure, including destroying homes, businesses, and other structures in their path.

Call Us Today!

When your Beckley home or commercial business has storm damage, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Spring Rainstorm Floods Low Lying Areas of Beckley?

3/19/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Raleigh County 24 hours a day.

Our local Beckley team is highly trained and certified to restore storm damage quickly and efficiently. Our region experiences a variety of storms during the spring months, typically from March through May. Here are some examples of spring weather we can experience:

Thunderstorms:  Spring often sees the development of thunderstorms. These storms can bring heavy rainfall, lightning, strong winds, and sometimes hail. While most are not severe, some thunderstorms can become severe and produce damaging winds or even tornadoes.

Rainstorms: Spring showers are common, bringing much-needed moisture to the region. These rainstorms can be gentle and beneficial for plant growth or occasionally turn into heavy downpours, leading to localized flooding.

Snowstorms: Early spring may still see occasional snowfall, particularly in higher elevations. These late-season snowstorms can disrupt travel and impact daily routines.

Windstorms: Strong winds are another characteristic of spring weather. They can accompany thunderstorms or occur independently, potentially causing power outages and tree damage.

Cold Snaps: Spring is a transitional season, and Beckley can experience sudden drops in temperature, leading to frost or freezes that can damage crops and plants.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has flooding damage from heavy rain, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Beckley Residents Brace for Another Winter Storm?

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team is ready to respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Winters bring a variety of storms to our region:

Snowfall: Beckley experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, often with heavy accumulations. Snowstorms can disrupt transportation, close schools, and pose safety hazards.

Ice Storms: Freezing rain can coat surfaces with ice, leading to power outages, tree damage, and treacherous road conditions. Ice accumulation on power lines and trees can cause them to snap under the weight.

Sleet: Sleet occurs when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground, creating a layer of ice pellets on roads and sidewalks. This can make travel hazardous and increase the risk of accidents.

Blizzards: Occasionally, we face blizzard conditions characterized by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and low visibility. Blizzards can lead to whiteout conditions and pose a severe threat to travelers.

Prepare for these winter storms by stockpiling salt and sand, maintaining snowplows, and ensuring that you have access to emergency services. Staying informed about weather forecasts and heeding advisories is crucial to staying safe during the winter.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has a storm damage emergency, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Shady Spring Prepares for Harsh Winter Storm?

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Winter is here and our local Beckley team wants everyone in Shady Spring to be prepared for winter storms. Here are some things that residents can do to prepare for a winter storm:

Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and stay updated on storm warnings and advisories through reliable sources like the National Weather Service.

Create an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated or hand-crank radio, blankets, warm clothing, and a first-aid kit.

Keep Your Home Insulated: Ensure your home is properly insulated and that windows and doors have weather stripping to prevent drafts. Consider using draft stoppers on doors and windows.

Winterize Your Vehicle: If you have a car, prepare it for winter by checking the tires, brakes, battery, and antifreeze levels. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle as well, including blankets, a shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction.

Stock Up on Supplies: Before the storm hits, stock up on groceries, medications, and other essentials so that you don't have to venture out during the storm.

Maintain Communication: Ensure your cell phone is fully charged and have backup charging options like a power bank. Establish a communication plan with family and friends.

Create a Family Emergency Plan: Discuss and rehearse a family emergency plan that includes meeting points and contact information in case you get separated during the storm.

Check Heating Systems: Make sure your heating systems, such as furnaces and fireplaces, are in good working order. Have a supply of firewood if you use a fireplace.

Prepare for Power Outages: Winter storms can lead to power outages. Have a generator, if possible, and know how to use it safely. Also, consider investing in surge protectors to protect your electronic devices.

Clear Snow and Ice: Have shovels, snow blowers, and ice melt on hand to clear driveways and sidewalks. Keep these areas clear to prevent slips and falls.

Stay Indoors: During the storm, it's best to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Only venture out if it's absolutely necessary, and if you do, let someone know your plans.

Check on Neighbors: Look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may need assistance during the storm.

Keep Pets Safe: Ensure your pets have adequate shelter and food, and limit their time outdoors during extreme cold.

Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, utility companies, and emergency services.

Know Where to Go: In case of severe emergencies or evacuations, know the location of nearby emergency shelters.

Stay Calm: Winter storms can be stressful, but it's important to stay calm and make rational decisions to ensure your safety and the safety of your family.

Remember that winter storms can vary in severity, so it's important to be prepared for a range of situations. Planning ahead and taking these precautions can help you stay safe during a winter storm.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial property in Shady Spring has storm damage, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

How Can I Protect My Home from Winter Storm Damage in Oceana?

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring property damage caused by storms in Raleigh County for many years. Oceana residents and businesses know they can rely on us to respond quickly to mitigate and restore storm damage. Protecting your home from storms involves preparing your property and taking steps to minimize the impact of harsh winter conditions. Here are some tips to help you safeguard your home:

Insulate and Weatherproof: Ensure that your home is properly insulated to keep it warm during cold weather. Insulate walls, attics, and crawl spaces to reduce heat loss. Seal any gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls to prevent drafts and heat escape.

Maintain Heating Systems: Service your heating system before winter to ensure it operates efficiently. Change filters and clean ducts if necessary. Consider using a backup heating source such as a generator or a wood-burning stove in case of power outages.

Prevent Frozen Pipes: Insulate pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as the basement and attic. Allow faucets to drip slightly during extremely cold weather to prevent pipes from freezing. Know how to shut off your water supply in case of a pipe burst.

Clear Gutters and Roofs: Remove leaves, debris, and snow from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage. Safely remove snow from your roof to prevent excessive weight and ice buildup.

Call Us Today!

When your Oceana home or commercial property has storm damage, our local Beckley team is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO® of Beckley is independently owned and operated.

Downpour Damages Home in Shady Spring?

10/3/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services. Residents and businesses know they can rely on us to restore storm damage quickly and efficiently. According to the National Weather Service, rainfall is abundant throughout the year in Shady Spring with May and October being the rainiest months of the year. Shady Spring averages 42 inches of rain, on average each year, receiving some sort of precipitation 150 days a year.

Water is invasive and will seep into cracks and porous surfaces quickly, which can cause significant water damage if the issue is not quickly rectified. Routine inspection of your home can help prevent water damage. Clearing rain gutters a nd making sure downspouts are draining away from the home’s foundation can help minimize the chances of water entering your home through the roofing system or the foundation.

What makes us a top choice for storm damage restoration services?

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster™
• Highly Trained Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Independently Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Shady Spring has a storm damage emergency, our local team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

National Preparedness Month Helps Families Learn to Plan for Disasters in Sophia?

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been responding to storm damage emergencies in Sophia for over 24 years, and we know that our fast emergency response time combined with our highly trained team and use of powerful, industrial-grade equipment helps our customers save money in many cases.

Every September brings the opportunity for Sophia residents to learn about disaster planning and safety.   is an annual awareness campaign that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) rolls out to promote awareness of emergencies and disasters.

This year, the National Preparedness Month theme is focused on preparing elderly populations and ensuring they have the support and resources they need to face the unique challenges that disasters, extreme weather conditions, and emergencies bring to this vulnerable population. By emphasizing the needs of elderly populations, our local communities can ensure that their needs will be met. This may include collaboration with healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations. To learn more about how to prepare elderly populations for disasters and emergencies, visit Ready.gov/older-adults.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial property has storm damage and you need fast emergency assistance, our local team in Beckley will restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.”  Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hurricane Preparation Tips for Mullens Residents?

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage day and night in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team wants everyone in Mullens to be ready for hurricanes. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hurricanes affect our region about once every 2.3 years, so even though hurricanes are not very common, preparing your home to withstand the heavy rainfall, high winds, and flooding these powerful storms bring is a good idea. Here are some tips for preparing your home from the Red Cross:

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately

• You may have to leave your home quickly and go to a safe place
• Know where you will go, how you will get there, and where you will stay
• Plan well in advance if you will need help leaving or using public transportation
• Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes and recreational vehicles (RVs) are not safe in high-wind events. Plan ahead by preparing to evacuate to a safe location.

Plan to shelter safely

• Be ready to live without power, water, gas, phone, and internet for a long time
• Practice going to a designated safe shelter for high winds. The next best protection is a small room with no windows on the lowest level of a sturdy building that is not likely to flood.
• Be aware that flooding can happen quickly. Have a plan to evacuate fast before floodwaters reach you.
• Create a personal support team of people you may assist and who can assist you.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Mullens has a storm damage emergency, our local team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Shady Spring Home Damaged by Derecho?

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team has been restoring fire damage for Shady Spring residents for over 24 years! Although summers are mild, summer storms do blow in on occasion. One type of severe storm damage is caused by derechos.

Derechos

The National Weather Service defines a derecho as a widespread, long-lived wind storm that is associated with a band of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms. Derechos can produce destruction similar to tornadoes, but Derechos typically travel in one direction cutting a straight swath of destruction.

2012 Derecho

In 2012, a Derecho formed in Illinois and traveled 700 miles, causing damage in ten states, including West Virginia. According to the National Weather Service, wind speeds were recorded from 78 to 68 miles per hour, and left 688,000 residents and businesses in the Mountain State without power. Many trees fell, causing property damage.

2016 Derecho

On June 23, 2016, another derecho came through West Virginia, just before severe flooding later the same day.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Shady Spring has storm damage that requires emergency assistance, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We can provide every service required to bring your property back to pre-damage conditions. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Beckley Prepares to Withstand Hurricane Damage?

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

When a storm causes damage to your home or commercial property, you can rely on our local Beckley team to restore your property damage quickly and efficiently. Since 1930, only 25 hurricanes have been recorded in West Virginia, and although Beckley is located in a very low-risk hurricane zone, the region often receives remnants of these powerful storms in the form of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, powerful winds, tornadoes, and landslides.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that hurricanes can affect the region once every 2.3 years, so it is still a good idea to be prepared in the event one does occur. The National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer this helpful information for making a plan as follows:

• Write down emergency phone numbers and keep them on the refrigerator or near every phone in your house. Program them into your cell phone too.
• Prepare an emergency supply kit
• Locate the nearest shelter and different routes you can take to get there from your home. If shelter locations in your area have not been identified, learn how to find them in the event of a storm.
• Pet owners: Pre-identify shelters, a pet-friendly hotel, or an out-of-town friend or relative where you can take your pets in an evacuation

Call Us Today!

When you have property damage from a hurricane or tropical storm in your home or commercial business, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Summer Storm Knocks Down a Large Tree in Pineville?

7/11/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Storms can cause property damage at any time of the year in Raleigh County. Pineville residents know they can rely on our local Beckley team to restore storm damage, no matter how severe the damage is. When a tree falls and causes damage to your home, our technicians can provide any services required to bring your home back to pre-damage condition. We are trained and certified to conduct tree removal services and to repair any damage your home or property may have sustained during the fall. Our customers love knowing they have one company managing the restoration process from the initial cleanup phase to the final rebuilding phase of the restoration. Here are some of the rebuilding services we provide:

General Contractor License #: WV056476

• Tree Removal
• Temporary Fencing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Services (HVAC)
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair

Call Us Today!

When you have property damage from a summer storm in your home or commercial business, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heavy Rain Causes Flooding in Glen Daniel?

6/13/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

If you live in Glen Daniel, West Virginia, you are no stranger to summer storms. Between June and August, residents may experience anything from frequent thunderstorms to heavy rain, and even occasional flash flooding. Our local Beckley team is on hand 24 hours a  day, 365 days a year to respond to storm damage emergencies. Here are some tips for preventing basement seepage and flooding from the Insurance Information Institute:

• Reseal your basement. Water in the basement is often caused by cracks in building foundations or floor slabs. If you notice water seepage after heavy rain when you’ve never had a problem, it may mean that your once-waterproof cement floors and basement walls have deteriorated. Painting vulnerable areas with water sealant can prevent seepage.
• Make sure water drains away from the building. Seepage is exacerbated by soil that has settled in a way to make water flow toward the building. After a storm, and especially if the ground is already saturated, rainwater that flows towards the building goes down the outside of the foundation wall, potentially through any cracks.
• Install a backwater valve. Though less common than other causes of basement water, sewer backups are messy. Learn more about your sewer responsibilities and install and maintain a backwater valve, which allows sewage to go out, but not come back in.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Glen Daniel has storm damage, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage in Beckley “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tornado Watch for Beckley Area?

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local Beckley team responds to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day. Although tornadoes are rare in West Virginia, they can occur with little advanced warning. These dangerous episodes can destroy homes, trees, and lives in just a matter of seconds. The Federal Emergency Management Agency suggests knowing the following facts about tornadoes:

• They may strike quickly, with little or no warning
• They may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel
• The average forward speed of a tornado is 30 miles per hour, but may vary from stationary to 70 miles per hour
• Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during the spring and summer months
• Peak tornado season in the southern states is March through May; in the northern states, it is late spring through early summer
• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between 3 PM and 9 PM but can occur at any time

FEMA suggests staying up-to-date and knowing the following signs of a possible tornado.

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.
• Look for the following danger signs:
• Dark, often greenish sky
• Large hail
• A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
• Loud roar, similar to a freight train.

If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage in Beckley “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Should I Do When a High Wind Warning is Issued for Beckley?

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Recently high wind warnings were issued for Raleigh County. Our local Beckley team responds to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day, and we typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call for help. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offers this helpful information about wind warnings, watches, and advisories:

High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action: Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects outdoors should be secured, and caution should be taken if driving.  

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind gusts of 58 miles per hour and/or hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Preparing for High Winds

• Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures
• Remove loose objects outdoors, on patios, roofs, or balconies that could blow away
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors
• Bring in unsecured objects from outside and secure objects that could blow away and cause damage or injury

Call Us Today!

When strong winds cause property damage to your Beckley home or commercial business, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your wind damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Surprise Freeze Causes Frostbitten Fingers in Oceana?

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies in Oceana 24 hours a day. Although spring is here, there is still the chance of a surprise freeze and chances for frostbite. Here are some signs and symptoms of frostbite from the Mayo Clinic:

Signs and symptoms of frostbite include:

• At first, cold skin and a prickling feeling
• Numbness
• Skin that looks red, white, bluish-white, grayish-yellow, purplish, brown or ashen, depending on the severity of the condition and usual skin color
• Hard or waxy-looking skin
• Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
• Blistering after rewarming, in severe cases

Frostbite is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. Because of skin numbness, you may not realize you have frostbite until someone points it out. Changes in the color of the affected area might be difficult to see on darker skin tones.

Seek medical attention for frostbite if you experience:

• Signs and symptoms of superficial or deep frostbite
• Increased pain, swelling, inflammation, or discharge in the area that was frostbitten
• Fever
• New, unexplained symptoms

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage in your Oceana home or commercial business, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on call 24 hours a day to serve you. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Ice Storm Downs Trees and Powerlines in Pineville?

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to ice storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies throughout the year in Pineville. Ice storms can cause significant damage to trees and powerlines. Fortunately, our team can provide a full range of cleanup and rebuilding services when there is structural damage to your property.

Ice storms cause heavy accumulations of ice that can bring down trees and utility poles and communication towers. When your home or business has storm damage, the immediate concern should be temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris.

After protecting and securing the structure, we can begin the restoration process. Our professionals can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process saves our customers time and keeps costs low.

Our team can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality, including:

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

General Contractor License #: WV056476

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Pineville suffers storm damage, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How can I prepare in Advance for A Power Outage in Mullens?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley is trained and certified to restore storm damage. Mullens weather can be severe, and power outages do occur. Our team of highly trained technicians responds to storm damage emergencies throughout the year and offers these tips on preparing for a power outage from the American Red Cross:

Create a support network. Identify people who can help you stay at home or evacuate during an extended power outage. Keep a paper copy of your contact list.

Stay connected and alert. Sign up for alert systems and apps for text alerts. Have communication devices that work without home power, including a crank or battery radio, a non-cordless home phone, and chargers/batteries for your cell phones and your computers.

Stock food and water. Store non-perishable food and water supplies for at least two weeks. Plan to use coolers and ice to extend food refrigeration and keep a thermometer in the fridge, freezer, or cooler to monitor the food temperature.

Know and plan for your personal and medical electrical needs. Take an inventory of your electrical needs. Consider backup and non-power alternatives for lighting, communication, medical devices, refrigerated medicine, cooking, garage doors, locks, and elevators. Discuss a plan with your doctors for your medical needs.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Mullens has storm damage, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We are on call 24 hours a day to serve you. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Ice Storms in Beckley?

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley is trained and certified to restore storm damage in Beckley by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industries. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) describes ice storms as heavy accumulations of ice that can bring down trees and utility poles and communication towers. Bridges and overpasses are extremely dangerous because they freeze faster than other surfaces.

Black ice is another ice storm hazard defined by patchy ice on roadways or other transportation surfaces that cannot be easily seen because it is clear (not white) with the black road surface underneath. It is most prevalent in the early morning hours, especially after the snow melts on the roadways, and has a chance to refreeze overnight.

Ice jams occur when long cold spells cause rivers and lakes to freeze. A rise in the water level or a thaw breaks the ice into large chunks, which become jammed at manmade and natural obstructions. The ice dams can act as a dam and cause severe flooding.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has storm damage, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® We typically arrive within four hours of your call for help. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do to Prevent Ice Dams from Forming on My Roof in Beckley?

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Raleigh County.

The best way to prevent ice dams from forming is to remove snow from the roof as soon as safely possible. Our local team in Beckley witnesses firsthand the damage ice dams can do to a structure and offer these tips for preventing roof ice dams from the National Weather Service:

• If you haven’t already, thoroughly clean all leaves, sticks, and other debris from your home’s gutters and downspouts. This allows melting snow to flow into gutters and downspouts.
• Make every effort to keep snow on your roof to a minimum. Long-handled devices on the market called “roof rakes” let you stand on the ground and pull the snow off the roof. Keeping heavy snow loads off your roof reduces the chances of ice dam formation and roof failure due to the weight.
• All winter long, keep gutters and downspouts clear of snow and icicles
• Evaluate the insulation and ventilation in your attic. Most experts agree that the R-value of the attic insulation should be at least R-30 (R-38 is preferable in northern climates). In addition, good airflow under the eaves or soffit area along the underside of the roof and out through the vents is essential. The venting allows the attic air to stay cold enough to prevent or minimize the freeze/thaw cycle on the roof.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has a water damage emergency, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Prevent My Pipes From Freezing This Winter in Oceana?

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Wyoming County.

Our local team in Beckley wishes everyone in Oceana a Happy New Year! Here is some information from the American Red Cross for protecting your pipes from freezing:

Before the onset of cold weather:

• Drain water from swimming pools and water sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's or installer's directions

• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage and under the kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes, like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼" of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.
• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing

Call Us!

When your home or business in Oceana has storm damage, our team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do To Protect My Home From High Winds in Glen Daniel?

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

The windiest part of the year in Raleigh County lasts about five and a half months, beginning in the middle of November and ending at the end of April. Our local team in Beckley restores storm damage throughout the year in Glen Daniel and offers these tips for protecting your property from wind damage from the?Federal Emergency Management Agency: 

Secure Fencing, Porches, Canopies, and Sheds 

Have them inspected and make sure they are firmly attached and in sound structural condition. Secure any parts of fencing that appear weak or loose. 

Anchor Any Fuel Tanks and External Utility Links 

If you have an exterior fuel tank or utilities located outside, anchor or tie them down according to the ground anchor instructions. This will help reduce the risk of them overturning and sliding. 

Replace Gravel and Rock Landscaping Materials 

Rock and gravel materials can cause serious damage during a severe wind event. Gravel has been found in mailboxes during very strong wind events and has even shredded vinyl siding. Replace these materials with a softer material, such as mulch or dirt. 

Call Us! 

When your home or commercial business in Glen Daniel has a storm damage emergency, we can help. Our local team in Beckley has the training, equipment, and experience to restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

What Are Some Visible Signs of Storm Damage in Beckley?

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Do you know that our local team in Beckley has been restoring storm damage for over 23 years? Beckley gets 42 inches of rain and 52 inches of snow each year. Strong winds, rain, snow, sleet, and hail can all cause damage to your home or commercial business. It is a good idea to inspect your property for visible signs of damage directly after a storm and call your insurance company immediately if you find damage.

Here are some of the indicators of storm damage:

• Debris on the roof
• Dents in your siding
• Clogged or broken rain gutters
• Visible damage to the roof facia
• Visible signs of the roof flashing
• Water spots on your ceiling or walls
• Cracked, dented, or lifted roof shingles
• Missing roof shingles

Sometimes the damage is extensive and requires rebuilding services to restore the structure to pre-damage conditions. We are licensed general contractors (General Contractor License #: WV056476) and can supervise a full range of rebuilding services when required.

Call Us Today!

Storm damage can happen anytime and cause structural damage to your home or commercial business. When you have a storm damage emergency, our local team in Beckley can help. We'll restore the damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Storm Damage Mitigation and Rebuilding Services in Beckley?

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley offers a full range of rebuilding services to help businesses and homeowners restore storm-damaged properties to preloss condition. Restoration is the final step in this process and may involve minor repairs, like replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may require major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. Here are some of the rebuilding services we provide:

Emergency Mitigation Services

When a storm or water has damaged your home, the immediate concern may include temporary protective measures to prevent additional damages, like placing a roof tarp.

• Roof Tarp
• Board-Up
• Temporary Fencing
• Move-Out / Pack-Out
• Temporary Warehouse Space

The following building and repair services may be necessary to restore your home to pre-storm conditions. 

• Drywall Removal and Installation
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• Tile Floor Repair
• Painting
• Carpet Repair and Installation

Building Services and Reconstruction

We simplify the restoration process by handling the initial storm damage mitigation and rebuilding the damaged areas. We are licensed contractors (General Contractor License #: WV056476). Using one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keep costs low. We can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Beckley has storm damage, our local team in Beckley can help. We’ll manage the restoration process from start to finish. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Stormwater Damage Prevention Tips for Beckley Residents?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Raleigh County

Our local team in Beckley has been restoring storm damage in Raleigh County for over thirty years! If you have a flooding emergency, here are some steps from our website for things you can and should not do while waiting for professional help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don’t use television or other household appliances
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage in your home or commercial business, our local team in Beckley can help. We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Severe Weather Threat as Thunderstorms Roll Through Beckley?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our team in Beckley wants everyone to stay safe during thunderstorms. We have been responding to storm damage emergencies since 1991 in Raleigh County. Here are some helpful facts and tips from the National Weather Service:

Lightning Quick Facts

• Lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly if it is a tall, isolated object
• Most lightning victims are in open areas or near a tree
• Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times each year
• Lightning can heat its path through the air to five times hotter than the surface of the sun

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

Nowhere outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area. Run to a safe building or vehicle when you first hear thunder, see lightning or observe dark threatening clouds developing overhead. Stay inside until 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.

• Stop all activities
• Seek shelter in a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle
• Wait thirty minutes after the storm to resume activities
• Stay off corded phones. You can use cellular or cordless phones.
• Don’t touch electrical equipment or cords
• Avoid plumbing. Do not wash your hands, take a shower or wash dishes
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches
• Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Beckley has storm damage, our local team in Beckley will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lightning Striking Swimming Pools in Beckley?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage mitigation and restoration in Raleigh County.

Do you know that thunderstorms can make swimming pools magnets for lightning strikes? The best policy is to go inside as soon as you hear the thunder roar and wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike to ensure the storm is over.

Our local team in Beckley  responds to storm damage emergencies every year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration give the following lightning safety tips:

• Avoid isolated tall trees, hilltops, utility poles, cell phone towers, cranes, large equipment, ladders, scaffolding, or rooftops
• Avoid open areas, such as fields
• Never lie flat on the ground
• Retreat to dense areas of smaller trees that are surrounded by larger trees, or retreat to low-lying areas but watch for flooding
• Avoid water, and immediately get out of and away from bodies of water
• Avoid wiring, plumbing, and fencing. Stay away from all metal objects, equipment, and surfaces that can conduct electricity.
• Do not shelter in sheds, pavilions, tents, or covered porches as they do not provide adequate protection from lightning
• Seek fully enclosed, substantial buildings with wiring and plumbing. In modern buildings, the interiorwiring and plumbing will act as an earth ground.
• A building is a safe shelter as long as you are not in contact with anything that can conduct electricity (e.g., electrical equipment or cords, plumbing fixtures, corded phones). Do not lean against concrete walls or floors (which may have metal bars inside).

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Beckley has storm damage, our local team in Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooding Safety Tips for Mullens Residents?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage throughout the year in Raleigh County!

Our local team in Beckley is on-call and ready to respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day, 365 days a year in Mullens. West Virginia ranks 5^th in the nation for flash floods. In 2020, floods caused over one billion in property and crop damage in the United States. According to the National Weather Service:

• Most flash floods are caused by slow-moving thunderstorms that repeatedly move over the same area or heavy rains from tropical storms and hurricanes
• These floods can develop within minutes or hours depending on the intensity and duration of the rain, the topography, soil conditions, and ground cover
• Flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels
• Flash flooding can trigger catastrophic mudslides

Flood Condition Driving Safety Rules

• Avoid already flooded and high-velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. If you enter a flowing stream and the water gets above your knee, TURN AROUND DON’T DROWN.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions
• If floodwaters rise around your car, but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the vehicle and enter the moving water.

Call Us!

You never know when you will need storm damage restoration services for your Mullens home or commercial business, but if you do, our local team in Beckley will restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated

How Can I Protect My Home From Storm Damage in Beckley?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Raleigh County 24-hours a day.

Our local team in Beckley has been restoring property damage in Raleigh County for over twenty-three years! Strong winds can cause structural damage to homes and commercial buildings. Here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for protecting your home from damaging winds:

Secure Fencing, Porches, Canopies, and Sheds

Have them inspected and make sure they are firmly attached and in sound structural condition. Secure any parts of fencing that appear weak or loose.

Fortify Your Roof

Re-adhere any loose shingles and consider impact-resistant shingles when installing a roof. Install roof strappings to anchor the roof framing to the wall framings so the wind can’t lift your roof off your house.

Trim or Remove Dead, Damaged, or Rotting Trees and Limbs

Make sure any damaged trees on the property are trimmed or removed regularly. Your home should be at least a full-grown tree’s height away from the base of any tree, usually about 40 feet away.

Secure Objects Outside the Home

Loose shingles, your dog’s house, trash cans, and sports equipment can be picked up by the wind and cause damage to your home—secure outdoor objects like furniture, gutters, and downspouts.

Call Us Today!

You never know when strong winds will cause storm damage to your home or commercial business, but if they do, our local team in Beckley is Here to Help. ^® We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips for Keeping Pets Calm During a Thunderstorm in Beckley?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Our local team in Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies every year, and sometimes pets get very anxious during thunderstorms. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)offers some great tips for managing your pet’s anxiety during a thunderstorm:

How to Help a Scared Pet

The good news is there are lots of things you can do at home to help your pet. Please remember that one thing does not work for all pets—so keep trying and see what works for them.  

• Keep calm! Your dog is aware of your emotions; they are more likely to get upset if you are.
• Let them hide. If they prefer to stay under the bed, in a closet or bathroom, let them stay there. 
• If your pet does not have a place to hide, consider creating a safe place for them. Interior rooms where there is less noise or flashes of light are a good place to start.
• Try distracting your pet by playing games. You can turn on the TV, play soft music, or give them a food puzzle or kong filled with their favorite item are all great ways to distract your pet. 
• Anxiety vests or shirts may also help your pet feel calmer

Call Us!

When your Beckley home or business needs storm damage restoration services, our local team in Beckley is Here to Help. ^® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooded Basement in Beckley Home?

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

When my basement flooded, everything was compromised by stinky, dirty water. Yuck! Thankfully my insurance adjuster told me to call SERVPRO^® of Beckley. They sent a team out right away to mitigate and restore the damage. The team removed everything and extracted the water using powerful extraction equipment. They set up air blowers and documented and monitored the drying process to ensure the area was returned to normal moisture levels. When they were through, my basement smelled great and was clean and dry.

Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety to keep your sump pump working correctly:

• Open the lid and remove debris that may be blocking the water inlet screen
• Pour about five gallons of water into the pump and watch the float valve rise
• As the float valve rises, the pump should turn on, and the water should discharge through the outlet pipe
• Go outside and inspect the outlet pipe
• Water should be flowing from the pipe and away from the home
• Contact a plumbing professional if the sump pump fails to operate during this inspection
• Install a battery backup system
• Choose a system with a battery replacement warning
• Replace batteries every two to three years

 Call Us Today!

When you have any storm damage in your Beckley home or commercial business, SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of technicians on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Snow Damage Prevention for Oceana Roofs?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Do you know how to tell how much snow weight your roof can support? Winters in Beckley are short, very cold, and snowy. Accumulated snow on roofs can cause structural damage and compromise the home’s roofing system. SERVPRO^® of Beckley offers this information from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety on how to estimate how much weight your roof can support:

Unless the roof structure is damaged or decayed, most residential roofs, regardless of the house’s location, should be able to support 20 pounds per square foot of snow before they become stressed.

• In some areas of New England and in mountainous regions throughout the United States, snow loads used in home design may be considerably higher, and the roofs may be able to resist a greater depth of snow.
• If you live in an area known for lots of snow, you can probably check with your building department to find out if higher loads were used at the time your home was built.

Call Us Today!

The more snow you can remove from your roof, the better your chances are for avoiding roof damage. When you have storm damage in your Beckley home or business, SERVPRO^® of Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Snow Storm in Beckley?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage restoration in Raleigh County.

The National Weather Service reports that from January 27 to 28, 1998, 25.5 inches of snow fell. Roads became impassable and power outages occurred. People were stranded in their cars and stuck on roads for hours. SERVPRO^® of Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies every year and offer these tips from the American Red Cross on things you should have on hand in a survival kit:

• Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
• Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio(NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries 
• Deluxe family first aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers (Similar item available in the Red Cross Store)
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Maps of the area

Call Us!

When your Beckley home or commercial business needs storm damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Beckley’s technicians has the advanced training, equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore storm damage quickly and efficiently. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Deadly Storm in Beckley?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

SERVPRO^® of Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies often during the winter months. The winter season in Beckley is short but averages 52 inches of snow a year. In 1978 a massive blizzard hit West Virginia. This storm is considered to be the biggest blizzard to ever happen in West Virginia in recorded history.

“The Great Blizzard of ‘78” shut down the state for days. The blizzard was caused by a low-pressure system that developed near the Florida panhandle. On January 20, the system reached West Virginia. The National Weather Service believed the snow would mix with sleet and rain, but the temperature never exceeded freezing temperatures, and the snow kept falling. That day 24 inches of snow was recorded in Charleston.

The blizzard caused roofs to collapse and stranded people, and many roads, schools, and businesses were closed for days. On January 26, a big rainstorm caused the snow to melt, and many areas flooded. Although there was flooding, snow remained on the ground for sixty days – the longest period of continuous snow coverage in West Virginia.

Call Us Today!

When your Beckley home or commercial business needs storm damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Beckley is Here to Help. ® Our technicians have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore property damage to preloss conditions. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flash Flood Warning for Beckley?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

SERVPRO^® of Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Beckley. Heavy rains can cause flash flooding, and it is important to know how to stay safe at home when facing a flash flood warning.

Be aware of National Weather Service flash flood bulletins:

• Flash Flood Watch: Heavy rains may cause flash flooding in your area. If a Flash Flood Watch is issued, be prepared for heavy rains and flooding
• Flash Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will develop quickly. If a Flash Flood Warning is issued for your area, take shelter and/or move to high ground as necessary
• Flood Advisory: Nuisance flooding is occurring or imminent. A Flood Advisory may be upgraded to a Flash Flood Warning if flooding worsens and poses a threat to life and property.

What you need to know:

• Learn the best routes to high ground where you live, work, play, and travel should you need to evacuate
• If your area is prone to flooding, keep emergency materials on hand, such as sandbags, wood, and plastic sheeting
• Do not allow children to play near streams or drainage ditches. These areas can quickly become deadly.

Call Us!

When your Beckley home or business needs storm damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Beckley is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Generator Safety Tips for Beckley?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Raleigh County.

Generators are a great resource when the power goes out, but they can be deadly when misused. SERVPRO^® of Beckley offers these tips for preventing carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning when using a generator from the American Red Cross:

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, or any partially enclosed area

• Keep these devices outdoors, away from doors, windows, and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors

• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to total incapacitation and death
• Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel health effects while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY - DO NOT DELAY.

• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide
• Test the batteries frequently and replace when needed

• If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business needs storm damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of highly trained technicians on-call 24-hours a day to assist you. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooding in Oceana?

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Wyoming County.

Flood Factor is a great resource for finding out the likelihood of flood damage where you live.  It is a free online tool created by the nonprofit First Street Foundation. All you have to do is plug in your zip code, and the website will rate the severity of flood risk for your area. According to Flood Factor, in Oceana, 73 percent of properties are at risk of flood exposure.

SERVPRO^® of Beckley has been helping the Oceana community mitigate and restore flood damage for years, and we know that our fast response time helps to minimize the damage and cost of repairs in many cases. Here are some storm and water damage safety tips from our website:

Safety First:

• Stop the source of water damage; call a plumber/or wait for the storm to end
• Turn off the electricity
• If it is not safe to stay in the house, evacuate everyone, including pets
• Have all your relevant documents in one safe, dry place
• If you have homeowner’s insurance, start the claims process
• Document everything with photos, and wear protective gear
• If you are a tenant, reach out to your landlord or property manager

Call Us!

When your Oceana home or commercial business needs storm damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of highly trained and certified restoration technicians on-call 24-hours a day to assist you. Call us today at 304-253-6633. We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flood Damage in Shady Spring?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

SERVPRO^® of Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies every year in Shady Spring. Here are some tips from the American Red Cross on cleaning and repairing your home after a flood:

• Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots, and be cautious when cleaning up

• Learn more about how to clean up after a flood, including the supplies you’ll need, how to sanitize food contact surfaces, and how to repair water damage

• Be careful when moving furnishings or debris because they may be waterlogged and heavier

• Throw out mattresses, carpeting, cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby toys, and other items that absorb water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected

• Throw out all food, beverages, and medicine exposed to floodwaters and mud. When in doubt, throw it out. This includes canned goods, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples, and containers with food or liquid that has been sealed shut.

• Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage. If the water is pumped out completely in a short period of time, pressure from water-saturated soil on the outside could cause basement walls to collapse.

• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are health hazards.

Call Us Today!

When you require storm damage restoration services in Shady Spring, SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of highly trained and certified restoration technicians on-call 24-hours a day to respond to your call. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Rainstorm Damage in Oceana?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Storm damage happens in Oceana.

During the last rainstorm, my roof began to leak, and water came in through the attic and down through the ceiling. My neighbor told me to call SERVPRO^® of Beckley. They arrived quickly and tarped up the roof and conducted a thorough inspection and determined the cause of the damage as a cracked shingle and deteriorated flashing by my chimney. They dried out the area and returned my home to pre-water damage condition in a short amount of time.

According to a study published by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), roof leaks were the most common source of water damage in the study, and the potential for a roof leak was even higher in regions where freezing weather and severe wind and hail were frequent. The IBHS suggests having a professional inspect the roof annually and to make repairs if:

• There are cracked or missing shingles or loose or missing granules
• Flashing has deteriorated, especially around chimneys and vents
• Pooling water is present

Call Us Today!

When you have a storm damage emergency, every minute counts and SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of highly trained storm restoration technicians on-call 24-hours a day to respond to storm damage emergencies in Oceana. Call us today at 304-253-6633. We’ll clean and restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Lightning Strikes in Beckley?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Thunderstorm Safety Tips for Beckley

Each March, West Virginia holds Severe Weather Awareness Week to create awareness for all kinds of severe weather, including thunderstorms, which are a common occurrence in the spring. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include powerful winds, create lightning and hail, and cause flash flooding and tornadoes.

SERVPRO^® of Beckley responds to storm damage emergencies often throughout the year in Beckley and offers these thunderstorm safety tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency on preparing for a thunderstorm:

• Know your area’s risk of thunderstorms. They can occur year-round and at any hour. Sign up for your community’s warning system.
• The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Identify sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study, and play.
• Cut down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home.
• Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices.
• Secure outside furniture.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of highly trained restoration technicians on-call 24-hours a day to respond to storm damage emergencies in Beckley. Call us today at 304-253-6633. We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Storm-damage in Shady Spring?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Raleigh County.

Storms Happen in Raleigh County

Winter weather can bring snow and rain to Shady Springs and the rest of Raleigh County, and in many instances, this can happen on the same day! SERVPRO^® of Beckley has a team of highly trained technicians on-call 24-hours a day to respond to your call for help. Here are some tips from our website on what to do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Call Us!

SERVPRO^® of Beckley has storm restoration technicians on-call 24-hours a day to respond to any flooding or storm damage emergency you may have in Shady Springs. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Downed Tree in Beckley?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Raleigh County relies on us to mitigate storm damage!

A tree falls in Beckley.

Did you know that a tree is not considered “planted” until it has been in the ground for five years? According to the Utah State University Forestry Department, there are many factors that contribute to the successful planting of a tree, including selecting trees acclimated to the region, selecting trees with well-developed crowns and with no wounds on the trunks or branches, and routinely mulching, watering, fertilizing, and pruning.  

Winter weather storms bring high winds, rain, snow, and ice to Raleigh County residents and SERVPRO^® of Beckley respond to many winter storm damage emergencies during the winter season. Trees and tree branches are known to blow down from strong winds, and heavy rains saturate the soil and can cause tree roots to fail, and sometimes fallen trees cause damage to homes and buildings.

Our technicians are on-call 24 hours a day to assist you with storm and property damage emergencies. When we arrive, we will tarp and board up any areas of the home or structure exposed to the elements, provide an assessment of the damage, and begin the mitigation process. Our goal is to make the experience as stress-free as possible.

Call Us!

SERVPRO^® of Beckley can respond to any size A chainsaw sits on top of a downed tree. emergency. Call us today at 304-253-6633. We’ll restore your property damage in Beckley, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Be prepared for power outages from storms in Beckley

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Managing Without Power in Beckley 

SERVPRO of Beckley has seen storm damage lead to power outages.   

A power outage can:

• Disrupt communication
• Make transportation difficult
• Shut down water pipes
• Close businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, ATMS, other services
• Lead to food spoilage
• Lead to contaminated water
• Disable medical devices

During a power outage in Beckley, be sure to:

• Keep freezer & refrigerator doors closed. It will reduce the chance of food spoilage
• User generators only outdoors and away from windows
• Disconnect appliances/electronics. Power surges can destroy equipment
• Have already set up plan to refrigerate medicines
• For people who use power wheelchairs, have a backup battery.  You may also need a manual chair
• The local power company should already know that someone in your home relies on medical devices
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home or business
• If travel is safe, go to another location for proper heating or cooling
• Check on your neighbors.

SERVPRO of Beckley is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/index.html

Storm Threatening Beckley?

1/17/2021 (Permalink)

We provide 24-hours emergency response every day in Raleigh County.

Severe Weather Happens

Severe weather and flooding are familiar weather scenarios for the residents and business owners of Glen Daniel. February 2020 brought heavy rains, flooding, and hazardous conditions to many areas of the state, causing some residents to evacuate due to high water. SERVPRO^® of Beckley responds to storm damage emergency calls throughout the year, and we see firsthand the damage high winds and heavy rains can cause.

Here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on things you can do while waiting for help to arrive in the event you are under a flood warning:

IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.
• Depending on the type of flooding:
  • Evacuate if told to do so.
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
  • Stay where you are.

Call Us!

When you need help with a storm damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Beckley is Here to Help. ® Our storm damage restoration technicians are on call 24 hours a day to respond to any size storm damage emergency. Call us today at 304-253-6633. We’ll restore your storm damage in Glen Daniel, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Prepare for a Winter Storm Beckley

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Beckley has these tips to help prepare for a winter storm.

Winter Storms in Beckley can bring high winds, snow, and ice. A winter storm can knock out power, water, and communication. 

SERVPRO of Beckley wants you to be prepared. Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. You can’t prevent a winter storm, but you can minimize storm damage.

• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies. Supplies include warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, medicines, and food. Gather any items you will need if you lose power or communication
• Develop a communication plan. Have phone numbers written down in case you cannot use your mobile phone
• Know the winter storm terms. The National Weather Service (NWS) will report a(n):
• ADVISORY when they expect that weather conditions might be hazardous. Be cautious, and the conditions should not be life-threatening 
• WATCH when they predict heavy snow or ice, but cannot yet show when or which areas will be hit. NWS issues a WATCH 12 to 26 hours ahead of the predicted storm 
• WARNING when they expect 4 or more inches of snow or sleet within 12 hours or they expect ¼ inch or more of ice. Keep warm and dry. Minimize driving. Stay indoors
• Tell your local electric company if someone in your home needs power for medical devices. They will make your home a priority
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.

SERVPRO of Beckley is independently owned and operated. 

Evacuation when Medical Supplies Are Needed for your Well-being in Beckley

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage & Evacuation in Beckley.

Some of these items can be kept in a waterproof container (your emergency kit). Medications probably cannot, but you can have them ready to bring with you.

SERVPRO of Beckley suggests having these items prepared in the event you would need to evacuate your home in Beckley.

• Copies of medical insurance & Medicare cards

• Warm blankets
• Extra clothing, especially socks & undergarments
• Bottled water
• Batteries for your electronic devices
• Written contact list

Some people in Beckley will also need to consider the following:

• Make sure that at least one other person can get your medications &  supplies
• Have at least a week-long supply of prescription medicines
• A list of all medications, dosages, and allergies
• An extra pair of glasses or extra contact lenses 
• Hearing-aid batteries 
• Games & activities for children

If you have pets in Beckley, consider these items:

• Pet food and toys 
• Toys or comfort objects
• Vet information

Some shelters will not or cannot allow pets. Ahead of an emergency, find out which ones will allow your 4-legged loved ones. All shelters allow service animals.  

SERVPRO of Beckley is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/ 

Rainstorm Flooding in Beckley?

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Beckley and many parts of Raleigh County.

It really pours in Beckley!

Beckley residents know a thing or two about rain. They should because Beckley, West Virginia averages 42 inches of rain each year, while the United States average is 38 inches per year! According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, winter temperatures will be much above normal, but there will be cold periods from late December into early January, and precipitation and snowfall will be below normal in most areas.

SERVPRO^® of Beckley has been responding to storm damage emergencies in Beckley and other areas in Raleigh County for years and we have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to restore properties damaged by storms. Our technicians are on call 24 hours a day and can usually be on-site within four hours of your call.

Upon arrival, we will assess the damage and tarp and board up any windows and doors to prevent water from getting in. Then we will begin the cleanup and restoration process. We will extract the water and thoroughly dry the area. Once the area is completely dry, we will make any repairs to the structure and clean and deodorize the area, too!

Call Us Today!

Beckley residents and commercial business owners know they can count on SERVPRO^® of Beckley to restore storm damage. We have a team of storm restoration technicians on call 24 hours a day to respond to any size property damage emergency. Call us today at 304-253-6633.

SERVPRO of Beckley is Independently Owned and Operated.

Prepare for a Winter Storm Beckley

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

When storm damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Beckley.

SERVPRO of Beckley has these tips to help prepare for a winter storm.

Winter Storms in Beckley can bring high winds, snow, and ice. A winter storm can knock out power, water, and communication. 

SERVPRO of Beckley wants you to be prepared. Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. You can’t prevent a winter storm, but you can minimize storm damage.

• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies. Supplies include warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, medicines, and food. Gather any items you will need if you lose power or communication
• Develop a communication plan. Have phone numbers written down in case you cannot use your mobile phone
• Know the winter storm terms. The National Weather Service (NWS) will report a(n):
• ADVISORY when they expect that weather conditions might be hazardous. Be cautious, and the conditions should not be life-threatening 
• WATCH when they predict heavy snow or ice, but cannot yet show when or which areas will be hit. NWS issues a WATCH 12 to 26 hours ahead of the predicted storm 
• WARNING when they expect 4 or more inches of snow or sleet within 12 hours or they expect ¼ inch or more of ice. Keep warm and dry. Minimize driving. Stay indoors
• Tell your local electric company if someone in your home needs power for medical devices. They will make your home a priority
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.

SERVPRO of Beckley is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1408633655071-32caae446efef4ab2f4fcccdb55f725c/PrepareAthon_WINTER%20STORMS_HTG_FINAL_508.pdf

Rain-Rain go away please come back another day

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Mud in Monroe County Church

A local church suffered a water loss caused by run off from an excavation site. An area above the church was being excavated and an unexpected rain storm hit one morning before the ground could be sloped and re-seeded properly. Without trees and other vegetation in place the topsoil was not shielded from the force of the rain and flowed rapidly and easily down the slope towards the facility.

As soon as the damage was noticed, SERVPRO of Beckley was contacted to begin mitigation. Numerous rooms including a kitchen and the gymnasium took several days to extract, dry, clean, and treat. Thankfully they received just the run-off of water and mud and no major damage to the exterior of the building that could have happened had a large landslide ensued.

Lightning Safety

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Photo showing that lightning travels the ground after it strikes a tree

Most all of us have known the lesson “STOP, DROP, and ROLL” if our clothing is on fire and the “TURN AROUND DON’T DROWN” to stop us from driving through high water.  Do you know the lesson for Thunder and Lightning?

WHEN THUNDER ROARS – GO INDOORS

Do not wait to go indoors until it rains as lightning may strike as far as 10 miles away from rainfall. You are in danger once you hear thunder.  Always take shelter in an enclosed building or hard-top automobile with all windows closed. Tractors, motorcycles, golf carts, or bicycles are NOT considered shelter.

Avoid the following once you are sheltered:

                Windows, Doors, Porches, Gazebos

                Concrete walls or floors

                Plumbing – do not wash your hands, bath or shower, wash dishes or laundry

                Corded phones, electrical cords or equipment, any device connected to an outlet

If you are caught outside crouch in the open field as far from trees as possible and do not hold any metal items such as fishing poles, golf clubs, umbrellas, tools, etc.

How are Hurricanes Named?

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

2019 Atlantic Hurricane Season-June 1, 2019 to November 30, 2019

^{The World Meteorological Organization began a strict procedure in the naming of Hurricanes and tropical storms in 1953. Prior to this the storms were tracked by year and order but often storm advisories broadcast from radio stations were incorrect causing a lot of false rumors and confusion. NOAA states “Over time, it was learned that use of short, easily remembered names in written as well as spoken communication is quicker and reduces confusion when two or more tropical storms occur at the same time”.}

^{Only female names were used from 1953 thru 1977 then male names were added to the list in 1978 and 1979. There are 6 list and the names are used on a six-year rotation, meaning the following 2019 names to identify storms will be used again in the 2025 season (unless they are retired from the list).} 

^{2019 ATLANTIC TROPICAL (AND SUBTROPICAL) STORM NAMES:}

Andrea

Humberto

Olga

Barry

Imelda

Pablo

Chantal

Jerry

Rebekah

Dorian

Karen

Sebasian

Erin

Lorenzo

Tanya

Fernand

Melissa

Van

Gabrielle

Nestor

Wendy

The Greek Alphabet (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and so on) will be used if more storms occur than names on the list.

Hurricane Season Awareness

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

The 2018 Hurricane season is from June 1, 2018 through November 30, 2018.

NASA states “Hurricanes are the most violent storms on Earth”. But should we track the path of Hurricanes, Tropical Storms/Depressions in Southern West Virginia?

Absolutely!

We may be hundreds of miles from the coast but when Hurricanes make landfall they can continue to spread extreme amounts of rain or high winds. These storms can bring torrential rains that can cause severe flooding (compared to wind & surge takes the most lives).  

High winds can topple trees and break branches causing damage to roofs and other property. Power poles/lines may fall causing fires, the possibility of electrocution, and blocking driveways and roads.

So stay alert during Hurricane Season, lives and properties can be saved by being prepared and ready to protect your family.

Click the link below to view what The Southern West Virginia Preparedness Partnership gives us for guidelines if hurricane watches or warnings are issued. 

http://wvprepared.org/beprepared/hurricanes

Athens, WV surprised by flood waters

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

Department of Highways begins repair on one section of a road closed due to flooding in Athens WV

Athens, WV residents are concerned but not surprised to hear about flooding in towns positioned near our southern Rivers (Greenbrier, New, Bluestone, and the Guyandotte).  But Athens isn’t located on the banks of a river so they never expected their town and areas surrounding them to experience “flooding” in May 2018.

So much rain fell in such a short period of time the ground could not absorb the amount of water fast enough to prevent flooding.  A total of 4.53 inches fell and 3.5 inches of that happened in less than an hour.

Ground water filled many homes and businesses and several roads were closed. Mud, rock, and debris were scattered along the highways in addition to some pavement being totally washed away making travel impossible.  

Severe weather can happen ANYWHERE – flooding is not always near large bodies of water - this small town is a perfect example.

You may be the Lucky one after all

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Flood waters recede now the cleanup begins

The flood waters have receded and the water is extracted but the work is only about to begin. The floors have to be cleaned to get rid of mud, rocks, and other various debris.  Drywall may have to be removed along with furniture, kitchen cabinets, and other contents. Then the reconstruction will have to begin.  All of this process can be overwhelming.

When faced with these circumstances it is important that you constantly remind yourself that you are the lucky one.  Your home is still standing.  It wasn’t washed downstream or even off its foundation.  So often many people are not so lucky. They can’t find not only their belongings they may never find the remnants of their home.

By allowing SERVPRO of Beckley to assist you during times like this you will again see how lucky you are. Our TEAM is trained to get the job done quickly, accurately and to show you deep respect and compassion.    

Check Weather Forecast daily

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

WV Residents and Guest - This is the time of year to be prepared for flood events.

West Virginia residents expect winters in our state to bring several inches of snow and very frigid temperatures. What we often forget is how our summer season can bring large amounts of rain causing deadly floods.

11 of the deadliest floods in our state occurred in the following months. For more information:

http://pages.geo.wvu.edu/~skite/DeadliestFloodsInWestVirginiaHistoryDRAFT.pdf

                1 in February

                1 in November

                1 in September

                2 in June

                2 in August

                4 in July

July is here!

SERVPRO of Beckley wants to remind our residents and visitors to check weather forecast daily. Know the difference from a watch and a warning:

 “A flash flood watch means a flash flood is possible in the area, because conditions are more favorable than usual for its occurrence. ... A flash flood warning means a flash flood is imminent or occurring; take immediate action to protect life and property.”

Remembering the 1000 year flood

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

In this picture if you look at the American Flag you can see by the muddy water line just how high the water rose inside.

We are nearing the 2^nd year anniversary of the June 2016 flood that swept through West Virginia resulting in 23 deaths.  Two years later as I reflect back on the jobs we did after the water receded I can’t help but think about Birch River Volunteer Fire Department.

Birch River Volunteers were busy taking care of their neighborhood as their own facility was filling up with flood water.  Once the water receded they continued helping families that were displaced by the storm. Taking care of others before even considering what needed to be done at their own building.  

We were contacted to perform remediation at the Fire Station. When our crew arrived they couldn’t believe the number of people from the area that came to assist in the recovery. We worked alongside total strangers to help get the Fire Station reopened to serve the community.

Snow, Ice, and Wind

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Snow - It’s Beautiful – But we are ready for a break in the Weather

March 2018 came in like a lion and continued to ROAR! Due to the winter storms and the extreme cold many in Beckley and surrounding areas are having to deal with power outages, hazardous road conditions, downed trees & poles, fire & water damages and the list goes on.

SERVPRO of Beckley has been busy with both commercial and residential properties. The majority of emergency services have been for water damage caused water line breaks.  A few fires have been reported and trees have fallen on roofs. Home owners and businesses have been faced with costly repairs not to mention getting back control of their lives.

I think we all agree that “Old Man Winter” needs to take a break so that our community can sit back and relax awhile – well until next winter anyway.

SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

3/17/2017 (Permalink)

Prevent seeing water disbursed all over your basement floor!

We want to give you a few tips before the impending spring rains hit Southern West Virginia.  As the temperatures climb and you just have to get outside to enjoy the warmer weather, make your first venture out a productive one.

Take a look at your Roof to see if you have any shingles missing or other damages the winter winds may have caused. Don’t forget to clean the Gutters while you are on the ladder.  How about those underground or exterior Drains?

The winter could have wreaked havoc on your Siding or the exterior Paint.  Because of the mountainous terrain most of us have basements so check for Cracks in the Block or Foundation.  Remember to check the Caulking around doors and windows.

If you have managed to survive the winter without water entering your House or Business, make it a point to keep them dry this spring and summer too.

The Power of Water - 2016 WV Flood

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

Water recedes but left behind mud and debris for removal

The power of water can be immense. 

On June 23, 2016 West Virginia witnessed this power. We experienced a destructive Flash Food brought on by over 9 inches of rain in a 12 to 18 hour period. This weather episode has been dubbed a "Once in a 1000 Year Flood" and an "Exceptional Meteorological" event.

44 of our 55 counties were placed under a State of Emergency because the normally tranquil rivers turning into violent water.

What did we experience?

• Property Damage was enormous - Homes & Businesses damaged or disappeared.
• Whole Towns inundated.
• Multiple bridges and roads washed out shutting down over 60 roads.
• Lives and Livelihoods destroyed.  

Most importantly we experienced:

• People coming together to help out one another.
• West Virginians did not sit around and wait for help, we put on our boots and gloves and started the clean-up process as soon as the water receded. 
• We observed an outpouring of human kindness from total strangers.

As devastating as this event has been we hope that when people reflect back to this Storm, they remember the good experiences too.

Backed up Storm Drain in WV

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

APRIL showers bring MAY flowers .... and .... Backed up Storm Drains, Leaking Roofs, and Flooded Basements & Garages.

When spring and summer storms are producing inches of rain, keep a close watch on your residence and take time to check on your vacation homes and rental properties.  Water damage can lead to harmful mold, rot and may affect the health of your loved ones and decrease the value of your structures.

If you find “Clean” Water damage we have tips on what you can do until we arrive to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. 

Storm Drain backups are an emergency and must be dealt with quickly. There may be viruses, bacteria, and microbes and should be handled by a professional. If you discover contaminated water SERVPRO of Beckley has Special training and equipment necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

http://www.SERVPRObeckley.com/

"Super" Derecho - June 2012

3/29/2016 (Permalink)

Derecho - A widespread and long-lived wind storm that accompanies rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms.

Until June 2012 many residents of WV had no idea what a "derecho" was. Believe me - now we know - The damage it caused and the aftermath that came with it.

Our State is not prone to Hurricanes or Tornados so we were in no way prepared for this severe summer storm. One thing we hope all of us learned is to keep an Emergency Supply Kit readily available - Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall.

Below is a list of supplies we suggest:

• Water (one gallon per person per day)

  Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

  Manual can opener, Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries

  Flashlight and extra batteries

  First aid kit

  Whistle to signal for help

  Clothing

  Dust masks or bandanas

  Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

  Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

  Local maps

  Hygiene items

  Important documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information

  Cash

  Fire extinguisher

  Matches in a waterproof container