The Five Most Common Types of Tornado-Induced Property Damage

Tornadoes are among the most destructive natural disasters, capable of causing extensive property damage through their intense winds and flying debris. Understanding the common types of property damage associated with tornadoes is crucial for homeowners and property managers.

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1. Roof Damage:

Tornadoes can easily rip off flat roofs and shingles from commercial buildings. The combination of high winds and flying debris can cause severe damage, leading to interior water damage and mold if not promptly addressed.

2. Broken Windows:

Windows are highly vulnerable during a tornado. The intense pressure difference and flying debris can shatter windows, compromising the building’s structural integrity and exposing the interior to further damage.

3. Structural Damage:

The powerful winds of a tornado can cause walls to buckle, foundations to shift, and even collapse entire sections of a building. Inspecting structural damage requires professional assessments to ensure safety and proper repair.

4. Water Damage:

If a tornado damages the roof or windows, rainwater can enter the property, leading to water damage inside the house. This can result in mold growth and further structural issues if not addressed promptly.

5. Debris Impact:

Flying debris propelled by tornado winds can puncture siding, damage external walls, and destroy outdoor structures like garages and sheds. This debris can also pose significant risks to personal safety during the event.

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Financial Impact:

• Economic Losses: In 2022 alone, more than 1,300 tornadoes hit the U.S., collectively causing $700 million in property and crop damage. Each individual tornado racked up, on average, $685,000 of damage (Sedgwick, 2024).
  
  
• Insurance Claims: Tornadoes and other severe storms have caused $10 billion in property damage annually between 2008 and 2015. Over half of all-natural disaster losses, including property and vehicle losses, have occurred since 1990 due to severe thunderstorms or tornadoes (Vavul, n.d.).
  
  

Preventative Measures:

• Reinforce Structures: Strengthening roofs, windows, and doors can mitigate wind damage. Installing storm shutters and using impact-resistant materials are effective strategies.
  
  
• Secure Outdoor Items: Remove or anchor outdoor furniture, equipment, and other objects that could become projectiles during a tornado.
  
  
• Safe Room Construction: Building a reinforced safe room within your property provides a secure place to shelter during a tornado and can increase the property's overall resilience.
  
  

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