Cold, high winds may threaten Colorado with downed trees, frozen pipes, damaged roofs
DENVER. Colo. – Interstate Restoration, one of North America’s leading disaster-recovery companies, is preparing to respond to damage to commercial properties, schools and other large buildings impacted by the upcoming “bomb cyclone,” a major blizzard hitting Colorado.
“You can see how quickly the storm is forecast to intensify,” said Dr. Phil Klotzbach, research scientist for the Department of Atmospheric Science at Colorado State University. “An official definition of a bomb cyclone or bombogenesis is when pressure drops 24 millibars in 24 hours, so this one could be close.”
“High winds of more than 50 miles per hour can lead to burst pipes, trees falling on buildings or roof damage,” said Tyler Katrana, regional project director for Interstate Restoration. “Business owners should do an immediate inspection of their pipes, windows, landscaping, heating systems and roofs before and after the storm leaves the state on Thursday.”
Katrana said storms this severe usually result in broken pipes among sprinkler systems, fresh water pipes, and water lines connected to chillers or freezers; plus roof damage caused by snow drifts, ice dams or strong wind gusts.
Interstate offers important tips for evaluating damage from blizzards:
1) Check to see if water is flowing normally from faucets. A burst pipe will restrict flow. Also check ceilings for leaks from fire sprinklers. If there is a problem, turn off the main water shutoff valve to the building or apartment unit.
2) Inspect the pipes closely for cracks. If you find any, call a plumber. If major water damage has occurred, contact a restoration provider.
3) If there are no cracks, use a space heater or hair dryer to gradually warm the pipe. You can also wait for the pipe to thaw on its own before turning the water back on. Never use any type of open flame or torch to thaw pipes.
4) Also check for roof damage or drifted snow on roofs. When raking snow off roof, stand far enough away to avoid the avalanche of snow and only rake small portions at a time.
About Interstate Restoration
Founded in 1998, Interstate Restoration LLC is an emergency restoration and general contractor specializing in repairing commercial property throughout North America. Fort Worth-based Interstate is a difference-maker in the industry, helping businesses to recover quickly from fire, flood, and other natural and manmade disasters.
