Atlanta is Georgia’s capital city, which is also the most populous city in the state, with over 6 million people. You can find the city in the north-central part of the state, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Atlanta experiences various natural disasters, including tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and ice storms. This post will focus on the common natural disasters that residents of Atlanta could experience.
Types of Disasters in Atlanta
The most common type of disaster in Atlanta is a hurricane. However, the city can also experience tornadoes, thunderstorms, flash floods, and winter storms.
From 1950 to 2019, there have been 26 named storms that hit within 100 miles of Atlanta. In 2018, Hurricane Michael caused an estimated $25.1 billion in damage in Georgia, making it the most expensive hurricane in state history.
While Atlanta has a low risk of wildfires, the city is not immune to fires caused by lightning strikes or other natural causes. In 2019, an Atlanta house was set on fire when lightning struck a nearby power pole during afternoon thunderstorms. The destruction also caused a power outage in the said house.
This means that if you live in the city, you most likely need a fire damage restoration service in Atlanta.
Moreover, Atlanta has an average of 48 days yearly with below freezing points and 2.9 inches of snow per year. The last time the city received a foot of snow was in 2011. While winter storms are not as common as other disasters, you should still be prepared for them. Be sure you have sufficient food and water to last for several days and warm clothing and blankets during a power outage.
In early 2022, a dangerous wind storm with high winds and ice struck the southeastern part of the United States, including Georgia. The devastation caused power outages and traffic accidents.
How to Prepare for Natural Disasters
- The best way to prepare for any disaster is to have a plan. Think about what you will do in the event of a power outage, road closure, or other emergencies. Your family should know your plan and how to reach you in an emergency.
- Have an emergency kit ready. This should include food, water, flashlights, and first-aid supplies.
- Learn the different types of disasters in your area and how to stay safe during each one. Listen to or watch local news and weather reports to stay updated on conditions.
- Know the evacuation routes in your neighborhood and plan ahead for where you will go if you need to evacuate your home.
- If a disaster occurs, follow the instructions of local officials and do not try to return to your house until it is safe to do so.
- Have a backup plan for communication if your cell phone service is down. This could include a landline telephone, text messaging, or social media.
- Consider purchasing flood insurance. Keep in mind that most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage caused by floods.
- Know your local fire department’s emergency contact number, as well as the police, restoration companies, and other government and non-government organizations that help during disasters.
- Look for reputable sources that can help you with water damage, fire damage, or other repairs after a disaster, such as this water clean up in Atlanta company.
The Bottom Line
Natural disasters can happen anywhere, even in Atlanta. Be prepared by knowing the types of disasters that can occur in your area and how to stay safe during each one. Ensure to have an emergency plan and kit ready, and know who to contact for help if a disaster strikes. Ultimately, look for reputable fire and water restoration companies that can help you with repairs after a disaster.
