Severe Weather Alerts

Here are some precautions and tips to keep in mind when severe weather warnings are issued.

Regardless of any warnings, you should consider having tall trees in your own yard trimmed or cut down. This will minimize the risk of damage from a fallen tree. In addition, structural measures are an option, such as securing the roof trusses and roofing with additional fasteners to prevent them from being lifted off by hurricane-force winds.

Storm

• Secure any outdoor movable items, such as patio furniture, bicycles, etc.
• Be sure to secure awnings and canopies against the wind
• Close the roller shutters and window shutters during a hailstorm
• If severe weather warnings are issued, avoid staying outdoors

Heavy Rain

• As a precaution, get some sandbags to prevent water from entering your basement
• Clear out basements or other areas where groundwater may seep in or that may flood from the outside, to the extent that no water-sensitive items can be damaged
• Be aware of the risk of electric shock in flooded rooms

After the Rain

• If the flooding has caused paints, varnishes, pesticides, gasoline, oil, etc., to be released, notify the fire department.
• If the use of pumps or water vacuums is necessary and feasible, the fire department may also be notified.

Check the German Weather Service (DWD) for the latest severe weather warnings

The German Weather Service’s official app, “WarnWetter,” is very useful.
Depending on your settings, it can display push notifications on your smartphone and provides real-time mobile access to weather forecasts.