Experts Weigh In on Preps for Severe Weather

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By Courtney Clark, Evening Anchor/Reporter - email

Wind and rain wreaked havoc in southern West Virginia Friday, leaving residents concerned about their homes and vehicles.

A tornado watch had many people across the region wondering how to prepare.

Experts weighed in on what you can do before and after the storm.

"If you have a garage, definitely put that in the garage or an enclosed car port," Jared Taylor, owner of Taylor's Auto Body in Beckley, said. "I've heard a lot of people and even done it myself, use a thick blanket, if you don't have a garage. Multiple towels will absorb the shock of the hail balls."

Taylor said the claims start rolling in from insurance companies as soon as the rain comes to an end.

Insurance experts agree the best thing to do is take advantage of the calm before the storm.

"We've had pools lifted up," explained Paul McClure, with Jeremy Miller Allstate Insurance Agency. "We've had trampolines come back towards us. So there's a lot of outdoor things that you could either weigh down or try to get away from the house to put in a better situation."

But if the storm hits before you have the chance and your home or vehicle has been damaged, Senior Allstate Sales Associate Paul McClure said contact your agent immediately.