What Is a Nor'easter and What Home Damage Does It Cause?

A nor'easter is a type of cyclone that forms along the East Coast of North America. It gets its name from the strong northeast winds that blow onshore. These storms can last for days and bring heavy precipitation, coastal flooding, and hurricane-force winds. They are most common from late fall through early spring.

Even though Bellingham is on the West Coast, nor'easters are a good reminder of how powerful coastal storms can be. The same principles of wind and water damage apply to any severe weather. If you live in an area prone to strong storms, you should know how to protect your home. Preparation is your sensible defense against unexpected damage.

• Heavy rain can overwhelm gutters and downspouts.
• Strong winds can peel shingles or tear off roof flashing.
• Coastal flooding can push water into basements and crawl spaces.
• Falling branches or entire trees can puncture roofs and walls.
• Power outages can lead to sump pump failures and indoor flooding.
• Snow and ice can add weight to roofs, causing structural stress.

Your first step after a nor'easter is to check for visible damage from a safe distance. Look for missing shingles, broken windows, or branches resting on your roof. If you see water stains on ceilings or walls, that is a sign of a leak. Do not enter a room if the ceiling is sagging or water is near electrical outlets.

If you can do so safely, try to stop the water from spreading. Move furniture and valuables to a dry area and place buckets under active drips. You can also shut off your water supply if a pipe has burst. Then contact local water damage pros to assess the situation and begin the cleanup process.

• Take photos of all damage for your records.
• Remove wet items that can be dried or salvaged.
• Open windows and doors to improve air circulation.
• Avoid using electrical appliances in wet areas.
• Do not walk through standing water if power might be on.
• Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you buy.

After a nor'easter, you can take steps to reduce the risk of damage in future storms. Keep your gutters clean and ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. Trim overhanging branches that could break under heavy wind or snow. Check your roof for loose or missing shingles before the next storm season.

If you live in a place with a mild marine climate, remember that wet winters can bring heavy rain and similar issues. Even without a nor'easter, winter storms can cause roof leaks and flooding. A little maintenance now can save you from a lot of stress later.