Severe Thunderstorms in North Texas: Tips for Navigating the Aftermath
May 28, 2024
Updated Apr. 3, 2025 at 11:22 a.m. CDT
Much of North Texas faced a severe thunderstorm watch Thursday morning. More severe weather is also possible Thursday night.
In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the National Weather Service said more severe storms are forecast for late Friday morning and afternoon, while the final round could occur Friday night into Saturday.
Here are some helpful tips to help navigate the aftermath of the storms.
Related: Planning to drive in the rain in North Texas? Here are some tips to keep you safe
D-FW Weather Wise
Understanding the Storms
Severe thunderstorms can be devastating, causing damage to property and disrupting daily life. It’s essential to be prepared and know how to navigate the aftermath of such storms.
The National Weather Service provides critical updates and warnings during severe weather events. It’s crucial to stay informed and follow evacuation instructions if necessary.
How to Report Damage
Storm repairs can be expensive, so it’s essential to protect your property and report any damage.
Most standard home insurance will cover damage caused by weather events as long as you pay the deductible. Here are steps you can take to report the damage, according to the Texas Department of Insurance, which regulates the state’s insurance claims process.
- Call your insurance company to report property damage. The company has 15 days to acknowledge your claim.
- Make temporary repairs and keep the receipts. Don’t make permanent repairs yet.
- Take thorough pictures and videos of interior and exterior damage, including potential problems such as mold, roof lifting and downed power lines.
- The company will send an adjuster to evaluate your home. Make sure your address is visible and try to be there when they arrive to point out the damage.
- Work with an insurance representative to repair your home. Keep a record of everyone you talk to during the process. If you need help quickly, ask about an advance payment.
- Before settling the claim, compare it with bids from multiple contractors.
Related: What are you supposed to do when you hear a weather siren? Here’s what to know
Dealing with SOS Mode
After some storms, many in North Texas find themselves in SOS mode when it came to their cellular devices.
According to Apple’s support center, if you see “No Service” or “Searching” in the status bar on your iPhone or iPad, your device isn’t connected to a cellular network. If you see “SOS” or “SOS only” in the status bar, your device can still make emergency calls.
This feature is available in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
People with an iPhone 13 or earlier versions won’t get the SOS indicator but will see a “No service” indicator, instead.
The SOS mode is indicative of your cellular service, so being able to connect to Wi-Fi could help you be able to send texts, access the internet, and make calls.
Additional Tips
In addition to reporting damage and dealing with SOS mode, here are some extra tips to help you navigate the aftermath of severe thunderstorms:
Stay safe: Avoid traveling during severe weather and stay indoors during storms.
Keep essential items handy: Have a first aid kit, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio on hand in case of a power outage.
Check on neighbors: Especially the elderly or those with disabilities, to ensure they are safe and have the necessary supplies.
Conclusion
Severe thunderstorms can be devastating, but being prepared and knowing how to navigate the aftermath can make a significant difference. By following these tips and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your property from the effects of severe weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about severe thunderstorms and the aftermath:
Q: What should I do during a severe thunderstorm?
A: Stay indoors, avoid traveling, and keep away from windows and doors.
Q: How do I report damage to my insurance company?
A: Call your insurance company, make temporary repairs, and keep receipts. Take pictures and videos of the damage and work with an insurance representative to repair your home.
Q: What is SOS mode on my cellular device?
A: SOS mode indicates that your device is not connected to a cellular network but can still make emergency calls. Connect to Wi-Fi to send texts, access the internet, and make calls.
