Why Sewer Backflows Are a Big Deal During Tornadoes (and What You Can Do About It)
Tornadoes aren’t just about high winds and flying debris (although that’s scary enough!). One often overlooked issue during a tornado is the potential for sewer backflows. Imagine dealing with that disgusting mess on top of the stress from storm damage—definitely not fun. Luckily, there are steps you can take to protect your home, reduce nasty surprises, and ensure your post-tornado cleanup isn’t any worse than it needs to be.
1. Secure Your Sewer Lines
This is a must-do. Sewer backflows happen when sudden changes in pressure push water (and worse) back up your pipes and into your home. Installing a backflow prevention valve is a game-changer. It’s relatively inexpensive, and it can help block any unwanted sewage from backing into your basement or bathroom. If your community has guidelines or programs that help with installation, definitely jump on board.
Bonus Tip: Make sure you have routine plumbing checks. Small cracks or leaks could become big problems in the whirlwind of a tornado.
2. Secure Windows and Doors
You’ve heard it a million times, but we still see pictures after a tornado hits where windows and doors have been ripped off or shattered. Doing something as simple as installing storm shutters, reinforcing door frames, or even investing in sturdier windows can go a long way. It’s not just about keeping the wind out—busted windows can let in heavy rain, and that water can wreak havoc inside your home (and give your sewer lines even more water to deal with).
3. Take Care of Lawn Furniture (and Other Loose Items)
We’ve all seen footage of outdoor furniture caught in a tornado—patio chairs become projectiles, tables go tumbling down the street. Securing or storing that stuff isn’t just about preventing a dangerous game of airborne dodgeball; it can also keep those items from damaging your exterior pipes or water lines. Tie everything down, move it into the garage, or store it in a shed. It’s one less thing to worry about, and your neighbors will thank you, too.
4. Trim Your Trees and Shrubs
Keeping your landscaping in good shape is another underrated step in tornado prep. Loose branches can crack off and smash into power lines, break windows, or cause other structural damage that leads to water infiltration. A trimmed and well-maintained yard helps lower the odds of any major fiasco, and it makes your property look neat and tidy in calm weather, too.
5. Have an Emergency Kit and Plan
Listen, anything can happen when a tornado decides to show up. Having a basic emergency kit with water, non-perishable foods, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies could be a lifesaver. Keep it somewhere easily accessible. And while you’re at it, make a family communication plan so everyone knows where to go and what to do—because it’s a lot easier to face these situations with a plan than without one.
6. Know the Aftermath Routine
Even with the best preparation, tornadoes can be unpredictable. Here’s your post-storm to-do list:
- Remove the Temporary Sewer Backflow device: Listen for gurgling toilets, check for leaks, or notice any odd smells. Call a pro if something’s off.
- Inspect your yard: Pieces of debris can puncture or damage pipes—remove or mark any suspicious objects.
- Document everything: If there’s damage, your insurance might come into play. Photos and notes of the situation will come in handy.
Final Thoughts
Sure, tornado prep can feel overwhelming, but it’s way better than dealing with the aftermath of a sewer-filled basement. By taking care of your home’s exterior (windows, doors, lawn furniture), regularly inspecting your plumbing, and installing a backflow prevention valve, you’ll minimize the damage a tornado can do. And trust me—spending a bit of time and money on prevention now is far easier (and cheaper) than wading through an unspeakable mess later.
Stay safe out there, and don’t skimp on those sewer protections!