Understanding wind and thunderstorm preparedness is essential for city leaders, as these events are among the most common and costly natural hazards. Thunderstorms can produce damaging straight-line winds exceeding 60 miles per hour, capable of downing trees, damaging roofs and disrupting power systems. In more severe cases, thunderstorms might spawn tornadoes or produce large hail, increasing the risk of injury and property damage.
Preparedness begins with awareness and planning. Organizations should routinely inspect buildings to ensure roofs, windows and doors are secure and in good condition. Loose outdoor items — such as signage, equipment or furniture — should be anchored or brought indoors before storms, as these can become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
It is also important to have a clear emergency plan in place. This includes identifying safe shelter areas, establishing communication protocols and ensuring employees or residents understand when warned about potential severe weather. Monitoring weather alerts and acting quickly when warnings are issued can significantly reduce risk.
The SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund partners with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety through a membership that provides benefits in understanding, preparing for and reducing the impacts of severe weather events — especially windstorms and thunderstorms. IBHS is widely recognized for its science-based research and real-world testing that helps communities, businesses and insurers strengthen their resilience before disastrous storms occur.
One of the key benefits of IBHS membership is access to cutting-edge research and guidance on building performance under extreme weather conditions. Through its state-of-the-art research center, IBHS conducts full-scale testing on structures exposed to hurricane-force winds, hail and wind-driven rain. Members can leverage this knowledge to be aware of construction standards, reduce property losses, and make more informed risk management decisions.
In addition, IBHS provides practical tools and educational resources that translate complex researched science into actionable steps. From roof design recommendations to maintenance checklists, members gain insights that can be shared with employees, and provided to stakeholders to promote safer environments. This is particularly valuable for municipalities and organizations responsible for public infrastructure and community safety.
Ultimately, IBHS membership equips SCMIRF members with the knowledge and tools needed to move from reactive recovery to proactive preparedness. By applying IBHS research and promoting strong loss prevention practices, members can better protect lives, property and critical operations when severe weather strikes.
Login to www.masc.sc to view the Hurricane Preparedness and Response Plan checklist. For more information on storm preparedness resources or any other safety topic contact Loss Control staff at losscontrol@masc.sc.