The short answer
When to Stay Put
If your home is dry and you have no signs of structural trouble, staying inside is usually the safer choice. Driving in heavy rain, wind, or hail raises your risk of accidents and getting stranded. You can ride out most storms at home if you have a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and a few days of food and water.
Keep windows and doors closed, and move away from glass if the wind gets intense. A mild marine climate with wet winters means storms often bring steady rain more than violent wind. Still, a sudden downpour can overwhelm gutters and cause water to seep under doors or through roof leaks.
If you notice water pooling inside, shut off the main water valve if you can do so safely. That simple step can limit damage while you decide whether to leave. Do not wade into moving water, and avoid touching electrical panels or outlets when things are wet.
When You Should Leave
Leave immediately if water is rising inside your home, especially if it is more than a few inches deep. Also leave if you hear popping, creaking, or cracking sounds from walls or the roof, which can mean structural stress. If the storm has caused a fire, gas smell, or downed power lines near your home, get out and call 911 from a safe distance.
Pack a small bag with your phone, charger, and important documents before you go. Tell someone where you are heading, and avoid driving through flooded roads. Even shallow moving water can sweep a car away. If you must leave, do not return until local officials say it is safe.
- Water entering through windows or doors
- Visible sagging in the ceiling or walls
- Smell of gas or smoke
- Downed power lines in your yard
- Floodwater rising faster than you can manage
Protect Your Home Before You Go
If you decide to leave, take a few minutes to reduce damage. Move furniture and valuables off the floor, especially in basements or lower levels. Turn off the main water valve and, if it is safe, switch off the electricity at the breaker panel. Unplug appliances to avoid power surges.
Close all interior doors to slow the spread of water and wind. Place towels or rags along the bottom of exterior doors to block small amounts of water. If you have time, move outdoor furniture, trash cans, or grills that could become projectiles. These steps may not keep your home perfectly dry, but they often cut the cleanup work later.
What to Do When You Return
When you come back, check for hazards before entering. Look for downed power lines, gas smells, or sagging ceilings. If you see any, do not go inside. Contact the utility company or emergency services instead. If the house looks intact, take photos of any water stains, soaked carpets, or debris before you touch anything.
Open windows and doors to air out the space if it is dry outside. Remove standing water with a mop or towels, and start drying wet areas with fans. If water has soaked into drywall, flooring, or insulation, the pros may need to remove and replace those materials to prevent mold. Acting quickly is important because moisture can spread within hours.
- Check for gas leaks and electrical damage
- Photograph all damage for your records
- Remove standing water right away
- Run fans and dehumidifiers to dry out
- Call a plumber if a pipe burst or leaked
- Call a mold professional if you see growth
When to Call the Pros
After a storm, water damage can hide behind walls, under floors, and in crawl spaces. If you notice a musty smell, stained drywall, or buckled flooring, a water damage inspection can find the source and show how far the moisture has spread. The pros use moisture meters to map wet areas and decide what needs to be removed.
If water has soaked into structural wood or insulation, drying and dehumidification are often needed to prevent rot and mold. Local water damage pros can handle debris removal, emergency storm cleanup, and structural drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so check your policy and document everything you find.
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Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
What should I pack if I need to leave during a storm?
Pack a small bag with your phone, charger, water, snacks, and copies of important documents like your ID and insurance policy. Add a flashlight and a change of clothes. Tell someone where you are going and avoid driving through flooded streets.
How do I know if my house is structurally unsafe?
Listen for creaking, popping, or cracking sounds from walls, roof, or foundation. Look for visible sagging, large cracks, or shifting door frames. If you see or hear these, leave and call a building inspector or structural engineer. Do not enter until a professional says it is safe.
Should I turn off my electricity before leaving?
Yes, if you can reach the breaker panel safely and it is not wet. Turning off the main breaker reduces the risk of electrical fires and shock if water enters the home. If the panel is wet or you are standing in water, do not touch it and leave immediately.