Lake City, FL – Forecasters are now confident Tropical Storm Hermine will impact the Columbia County area. Likely, Hermine will produce 20 – 30 mph wind and 5 to 10 inches of rain in our area. Now is the time to take reasonable precautions to protect your property. We suggest the following:
• Trim tree limbs away from buildings. The action of wind driven tree limbs beating upon your home or business can create openings for water damage. We recommend cutting tree limbs at least 3 feet away from structures.
• Leaf dams. An accumulation of leaves in your roof valleys can create dams that cause water to back up underneath your shingles, causing water damage. We recommend you inspect the valleys on your roof, and clear any obstructions.
• Brace your garage door. The garage door is likely the weakest entry point to your home. If the garage door fails, wind driven rain can enter your home, causing water damage to your property.
• Clear storm drains. While city storm drains are not your responsibility, it is prudent before a storm to see if the storm drains you rely on to move storm water away from your home are free of debris. Water damage from failed storm drain is not covered by homeowner policies and may not be covered by flood insurance.
