We begin by contextualizing that extreme weather phenomena — windstorms, intense thunderstorms, heavy rain, and even floods — may occur more frequently due to climate change. We emphasize that being prepared at home or outdoors makes all the difference in protecting people, property (including your jewelry), and minimizing risks. In this article, you will find not only what to do during a storm, but above all, how to effectively prevent and react with confidence.

Why are storms so dangerous?

Strong winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms, and floods
There are risks associated with storms: falling trees, damage to power lines, flash floods, impacts from hail or objects projected by the wind. For example, specialized agencies indicate that one of the high-risk factors is remaining near windows or large doors.

The element of surprise and the need for speed
Even when the sky seems calm, a storm can develop rapidly. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be hit — "if you hear thunder, go inside" is a motto of meteorological safety. 

Storm Prevention

Preparing your home and surroundings

• Check the roof, beams, sluice gates, and flashing; remove loose objects outside (garden furniture, containers, toys) that the wind could blow away.
• Clean gutters and drains to prevent water accumulation that could cause leaks or flooding.
• Check your insurance coverage, have personal documents readily available, and carry physical or digital copies.

Emergency Kit and Family Plan

• Prepare a kit with drinking water, non-perishable food, batteries, a flashlight, a radio, essential documents, and medications.
• Define meeting points, evacuation routes, and locate safe shelter for family and animals.

Monitor forecasts and warnings

• Use weather apps or websites, set alerts; know the terms "warning" and "weather alert."
• Make proactive decisions—such as moving your car to the garage, turning off appliances, etc.

During a Storm – Immediate Safety Measures

If you are at home

• Stay away from windows and glass doors.
• Stay away from electrical appliances, metal pipes, and avoid using landline phones.
• In areas of strong winds or flooding, go to the innermost part of the house, preferably a lower floor or a room without windows.

If you are outside or in a vehicle

• Seek shelter inside a sturdy building or a closed vehicle; avoid isolated trees, glass structures, or areas near water.
• In case of flooding, do not drive through areas of running water or flooded areas; the vehicle may float in shallow water.

After thunder or lightning

• Be patient — the risk may remain for up to 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
• Check for downed power lines, branches, or debris that may pose a danger.

After the Storm – Assess and Act

Check the safety of your home

• Assess damage to the ceiling, windows, and roof; contact your insurance company or professionals for repairs.
• Avoid entering flooded areas or areas with exposed electrical wires.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Remove debris, clean up standing water, and ventilate the house to prevent dampness and mold.
• Check heating/ventilation systems to ensure they are off, preventing carbon monoxide hazards.

Record and Report Damage

• Take photos, inventory damaged goods, and keep repair receipts—essential for insurance or support claims.

Long-Term Prevention – Becoming More Resilient

Structural Improvements

• Install storm shutters, reinforce doors/garage doors, and install lightning rods or an electrical grounding system.
• Prune trees near the house and avoid dead or hanging plants near power lines.

Culture of preparedness

• Conduct family drills, update evacuation plan and emergency kit annually.

Insurance and coverage

• Verify that the insurance policy covers wind, falling trees, floods or storms and adjust if necessary.

Conclusion

On stormy days, the best way to react is through preparation: before, during, and after.
To prevent, you can significantly reduce the risks to yourself, your family, and your home. While we cannot control the weather, we can control how we respond to it.
With the right steps—emergency kit, action plan, safe shelter, and post-storm review—you will be much better prepared to face any storm.

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