Atlanta, Georgia, is a beautiful city with a lot to offer its residents. It has a vibrant culture, great food, and plenty of things to do. However, like any other city, it is not immune to natural disasters.

Here’s a brief overview of the most common natural disasters in Atlanta and what you should do if you’re stuck in one.

Types of Disasters in Atlanta

Atlanta is located in the southeastern United States, which means that it is susceptible to various natural disasters. These include hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, 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.

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.

Also, 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. This means that you most likely need a disaster restoration in Atlanta.

How to Prepare for Natural Disasters

• Having an evacuation plan is the best way to prepare for a natural disaster. This should include a list of items you need to take with you, as well as a designated meeting place for your family or group.
• It’s also important to have an emergency kit ready. This should include non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, flashlights, and batteries. Consider investing in a portable generator.
• If you reside in a flood-prone area, be sure to have sandbags on hand to help protect your property.
• 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.
• 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.
• Keep emergency numbers at hand, including your local fire department, police, and other government and non-government organizations.
• Look for reputable and experienced sources that can help you with water damage, fire damage, or other repairs after a disaster, such as this water and fire damage Atlanta company.

The Bottom Line

Moving to Atlanta, Georgia, is a great way to enjoy all the city can offer. However, it’s essential to be prepared for natural disasters, as they can occur at any time. Be sure you have an evacuation plan and emergency kit ready, and know how to stay safe during each disaster.

Ensure you also have the contact information of reliable water damage and fire damage restoration companies (such as this water damage recovery Union City professionals) in case you need their services after a disaster.