How to Prepare for Derecho Storms: Essential Safety Measures for This Destructive Weather Event

Derecho storms—powerful, fast-moving windstorms that can cause widespread destruction in a matter of hours—have become increasingly concerning weather events across the United States. These intense, straight-line wind storms can travel hundreds of miles, bringing hurricane-force winds, torrential rain, and dangerous lightning that leave communities devastated with little warning. According to the National Weather Service, a derecho must produce wind damage that extends more than 240 miles and includes wind gusts of at least 58 mph throughout most of its path. The most severe derechos can generate winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, destroying homes, and causing widespread power outages that last for days or even weeks.

In June 2012, a particularly devastating derecho traveled from Iowa to the Mid-Atlantic, covering 700 miles in just 12 hours and causing $2.9 billion in damage across multiple states. More recently, the August 2020 Midwest derecho damaged or destroyed 850,000 acres of crops in Iowa alone and caused over $11 billion in damage across the region. These increasingly common extreme weather events demand proper preparation, especially as climate scientists project their frequency and intensity may increase in coming decades.

Understanding Derecho Storms: The “Inland Hurricane”

Derechos (pronounced deh-REY-chos) are often called “inland hurricanes” because their destructive wind patterns can mimic those of tropical systems, but they form through entirely different atmospheric processes. These massive windstorms typically develop from lines of thunderstorms called mesoscale convective systems. When these systems organize in specific ways with the right atmospheric conditions—typically during hot, humid summer weather—they can produce a bow-shaped line of severe thunderstorms that generates destructive straight-line winds rather than the rotational winds of tornadoes.

What makes derechos particularly dangerous is their rapid movement and wide path of destruction. While a typical severe thunderstorm might affect a community for 30-60 minutes, a derecho’s intense winds can hammer an area for several hours. The National Weather Service categorizes derechos into three types based on the pattern of wind damage:

Progressive derechos: These move in a relatively straight line and are associated with a single, bow-shaped line of thunderstorms. They’re most common in the summer months across the northern Plains and Midwest.
Serial derechos: These develop along squall lines associated with strong cold fronts and can affect very large areas, often occurring in spring or fall.
Hybrid derechos: These show characteristics of both progressive and serial types.

The majority of derechos occur during the warm season between May and August, with peak activity in June and July. While the Midwest and Great Plains experience the highest frequency of these storms, derechos can and do occur throughout much of the United States east of the Rocky Mountains.

Warning Signs and Forecasting Challenges

Unlike hurricanes that develop over days and provide ample warning time, derechos can form and intensify rapidly, sometimes giving residents only minutes to prepare. While meteorological technology has improved significantly in recent years, the National Weather Service still faces challenges in providing long-lead forecasts for these complex storm systems. Most derechos can only be reliably predicted 6-12 hours in advance, making advance preparation and having a response plan in place absolutely critical for residents in vulnerable areas.

When monitoring weather conditions, be alert for these potential warning signs of an approaching derecho:

A dark or greenish sky, which often indicates large amounts of water and ice in the storm clouds
A wall of thick clouds approaching from the horizon
Unusual quiet followed by a distant roar (sometimes described as sounding like a freight train)
Rapidly dropping temperatures as the gust front approaches
Severe Thunderstorm Watches or Warnings with specific mentions of “damaging wind threat” or “wind damage threat”
Weather alerts mentioning “bow echo” or “squall line” formations

The National Weather Service has developed specific radar signatures that help meteorologists identify potential derecho-producing storms. If forecasters detect these patterns, they’ll typically issue Severe Thunderstorm Watches and Warnings with explicit mentions of the derecho threat and expected wind speeds. However, the challenge remains that residents may have very little time between warning and impact—sometimes as little as 15-30 minutes.

Essential Home Preparation Steps Before Derecho Season

Preparing your home for potential derecho impacts should be done well before storm season arrives. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), homes in derecho-prone regions should undergo a thorough inspection and reinforcement process annually. This preparation is particularly important because derechos can affect much larger geographic areas than tornadoes, meaning emergency services may be overwhelmed and unable to respond quickly to all affected areas. Based on data from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, homes with proper reinforcement measures can reduce wind damage by up to 50% during severe straight-line wind events.

Roof inspection and reinforcement: Have your roof professionally inspected annually for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or weakened structural components. Consider installing hurricane straps or clips to secure roof trusses to wall frames—these relatively inexpensive reinforcements can prevent catastrophic roof failure during high winds.
Window and door protection: Install impact-resistant windows or storm shutters for homes in high-risk areas. At minimum, have pre-cut plywood sheets ready to quickly cover windows when storms threaten.
Garage door reinforcement: Garage doors are often the first structural element to fail in high winds. Reinforce existing doors with a bracing kit or consider replacing with a wind-rated model.
Secure outdoor items: Create a checklist of items that need to be secured or brought inside before a storm, including patio furniture, grills, planters, toys, and lawn equipment.
Tree maintenance: Regularly trim trees near your home, removing dead branches and assessing the health of large trees. Consider having arborists evaluate mature trees within falling distance of structures.
Generator installation: Consider installing a permanent standby generator with automatic transfer switch, or at minimum, have a portable generator with proper extension cords and fuel storage.
Reinforce outbuildings: Secure sheds, detached garages, and other structures with proper anchoring to foundations and reinforced door latches.

Many of the homeowners we work with are surprised to learn that these wind-resistant home improvements may qualify for insurance premium discounts. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about potential savings for implementing these safety measures, which can help offset the initial investment while providing peace of mind.

Creating a Comprehensive Derecho Emergency Kit

Power outages following derechos can last for days or even weeks, especially in rural areas where utility infrastructure may take longer to repair. According to the Department of Homeland Security, households should prepare to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours following severe weather events. Based on data from recent derechos, including the 2020 Midwest event that left some communities without power for more than two weeks, we recommend preparing supplies for at least 5-7 days. Your emergency kit should include:

Water supply: Store at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation. A family of four should have a minimum of 28 gallons for a week’s supply.
Non-perishable food: Stock ready-to-eat items that don’t require cooking, such as canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts. Include manual can openers.
Medication and first aid: Maintain at least a week’s supply of prescription medications, along with a comprehensive first aid kit including bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any specific medical supplies your family might need.
Communication tools: Keep battery-powered or hand-crank weather radios, multiple flashlights, and portable phone chargers or power banks. Consider solar-powered options for extended outages.
Batteries: Stock various sizes for all devices, with emphasis on D-cells for flashlights and weather radios.
Personal hygiene and sanitation: Include hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, toilet paper, garbage bags, and personal hygiene items.
Important documents: Store copies of identification, insurance policies, medical information, and bank records in waterproof containers or digital formats on encrypted flash drives.
Cash: Keep small bills and coins on hand, as electronic payment systems may be unavailable during power outages.
Tools and supplies: Include a multi-tool, duct tape, plastic sheeting, work gloves, and basic tools for emergency repairs.
Pet supplies: Don’t forget food, water, medications, and comfort items for pets.

Based on what we’ve seen across real-world use, portable power stations with solar recharging capabilities have become increasingly valuable additions to emergency kits. These devices can keep essential medical equipment, communication devices, and small appliances running during extended outages. For families with members who rely on electrically-powered medical devices, having a backup power solution isn’t just convenient—it’s potentially life-saving.

Developing a Family Emergency Plan for Derechos

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, families with clear emergency plans respond more effectively during disasters and experience less psychological distress afterward. Yet surveys indicate that fewer than 40% of American families have discussed and documented emergency plans. Developing and practicing a family emergency plan specifically for derecho scenarios should address several key components:

Communication Strategy

During widespread emergencies, local cellular networks often become overloaded or damaged. Establish multiple ways for family members to communicate and reconnect:

Designate an out-of-state contact person that all family members can call to check in with
Program emergency contacts in everyone’s phones under “ICE” (In Case of Emergency)
Consider text messaging rather than calls, as texts may go through when call volume is high
Establish a communication hierarchy (who contacts whom and in what order)
Identify specific meeting locations if separated during the emergency
Consider two-way radios for local communication when cell networks are down

Shelter Plans

Unlike tornadoes that require immediate underground shelter, derechos primarily present hazards from falling trees, flying debris, and structural damage. Identify the safest locations in your home:

Select an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows
Avoid rooms with exterior walls if possible
Stay away from areas where large trees could potentially fall on the structure
If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdy nearby building for shelter
Map multiple routes to community storm shelters if your home isn’t structurally sound

Evacuation Procedures

While immediate evacuation is rarely necessary for derechos, you may need to relocate after the storm if your home sustains significant damage:

Document multiple evacuation routes from your neighborhood
Identify potential shelter locations, including friends/family homes and emergency shelters
Prepare a “go bag” with essentials that can be grabbed quickly
Establish a plan for evacuating with pets
Designate responsibilities for gathering emergency supplies and securing the home

We typically recommend starting with a basic written plan if your biggest concern is getting through the immediate aftermath of a derecho. For many families, a one-page document with emergency contacts, meeting locations, and basic safety procedures posted on the refrigerator provides an accessible reference during stressful situations. As you become more comfortable with emergency planning, you can develop more detailed procedures tailored to your family’s specific needs.

What to Do When a Derecho Warning Is Issued

When the National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Warning with specific mention of derecho conditions, you may have very little time to act. According to analysis of recent derechos, the average lead time between warning and impact is approximately 30 minutes, though in some cases it may be significantly less. Having a practiced, systematic approach to these warnings can significantly reduce injury risk and property damage.

Immediate Safety Actions

Move to your designated safe room immediately—an interior room on the lowest floor without windows
Bring pets indoors and secure them in carriers if they might panic
Stay away from windows and exterior doors throughout the duration of the storm
Use mobile alerts to stay informed, but don’t rely exclusively on cellular service
Keep a battery-powered weather radio nearby for updates if power and cellular service fail
Wear shoes in case you need to navigate debris after the storm
Put on bicycle or sports helmets if available, especially for children, to protect from falling debris

Last-Minute Property Protection

If time permits before seeking shelter, quickly secure your property:

Close and secure all windows, exterior doors, and garage doors
Close interior doors throughout the house to compartmentalize pressure changes
Turn refrigerators and freezers to coldest settings and avoid opening them if power fails
Unplug sensitive electronics and appliances to protect from power surges
Move vehicles into garages if possible, or away from trees if not
Fill bathtubs and containers with water for sanitation needs if water service is disrupted

For renters, this feature often makes installation easier without long-term commitments. Many of our apartment-dwelling clients have successfully negotiated with landlords to install temporary storm protection measures like removable window films that can reduce glass breakage without permanent modifications to the property.

Actions During a Derecho Storm

As the derecho passes through your area, the primary goal is to remain in your designated safe location until the threat has completely passed. Derecho wind fields typically last 10-30 minutes in any given location, though the entire system may bring dangerous conditions for several hours. According to the National Weather Service, one of the most dangerous aspects of derechos is their “second wind” phenomenon—a period of relative calm followed by another intense wind surge, often from a different direction.

Indoor Safety

Remain in your safe room until officials indicate the entire storm system has passed
Stay away from windows even during apparent lulls in the storm
Monitor weather radio for updates on storm progression
If you hear the structure breaking apart or detect gas leaks, cover yourself with a mattress or get under sturdy furniture
Use flashlights rather than candles to avoid fire hazards if power fails
Conserve phone battery by limiting use to essential communications

If Caught Outside or in a Vehicle

While being indoors during a derecho is strongly preferred, sometimes storms develop so quickly that people are caught outside or in transit. If you find yourself outdoors when a derecho strikes:

Seek shelter in the nearest sturdy building immediately
If no building is available, get to low ground away from trees and power lines
Never shelter under trees during high winds and lightning
If driving, pull over safely away from trees, power lines, and overpasses
Stay in your vehicle with seatbelt fastened, keeping your head below window level
Cover yourself with a coat or blanket to protect from breaking glass

Post-Derecho Recovery and Safety

The aftermath of a derecho can present numerous hazards that sometimes cause more injuries than the storm itself. According to data from the CDC, a significant percentage of storm-related injuries occur during cleanup operations. Following the 2020 Midwest derecho, emergency departments reported a surge in chainsaw injuries, falls, and electrocutions in the weeks following the storm. Exercise extreme caution when assessing damage and beginning recovery efforts.

Immediate Post-Storm Safety

Check for injuries among family members and provide first aid as needed
Report life-threatening emergencies to 911, but understand response may be delayed
Avoid all downed power lines and report them to the utility company
Check for gas leaks by smell or hissing sounds—if detected, leave immediately and report from a safe distance
Examine your home’s structural integrity before re-entering if you evacuated
Document damage with photographs for insurance claims before beginning cleanup
Use proper safety equipment during cleanup, including gloves, goggles, and sturdy shoes
Be alert for damaged trees that may continue to fall days after the storm

Extended Power Outage Management

Derechos frequently cause widespread power outages that can last for days or weeks. Managing an extended outage requires careful planning:

Food safety: Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible. Refrigerated food will stay cold for about 4 hours; a full freezer will maintain temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if half-full).
Generator safety: Never operate generators indoors or in partially enclosed spaces, including garages. Keep generators at least 20 feet from doors and windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Alternative cooking: Use outdoor grills or camp stoves in well-ventilated areas only. Never use charcoal grills indoors.
Water conservation: If water service is disrupted, use your emergency water supply sparingly. Prioritize drinking and essential hygiene.
Temperature management: In hot weather, find cool locations during the day if possible. Use battery-powered fans and stay hydrated.

Community Response and Mutual Aid

One of the most effective recovery strategies after widespread disasters is community cooperation. Consider these approaches:

Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors
Organize neighborhood cleanup teams to clear debris safely
Share resources like generators, chainsaws, and cooking facilities
Establish community charging stations for phones and devices
Coordinate with local emergency management for distribution of supplies

Based on what we’ve seen across real-world use, communities that establish mutual aid networks before disasters strike recover significantly faster than those that don’t. Consider organizing a neighborhood emergency response team that meets regularly to plan for various scenarios, including derechos.

Insurance Considerations and Financial Preparedness

Derecho damage can be financially devastating without proper insurance coverage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average homeowner’s claim for wind damage exceeds $10,000, with many derecho-related claims significantly higher. Before storm season arrives, review your insurance policies carefully and consider these important factors:

Coverage verification: Ensure your homeowner’s or renter’s policy specifically covers wind damage. Some policies in high-risk areas may have wind exclusions or separate deductibles for wind events.
Deductible awareness: Understand your policy deductibles—some insurers have implemented percentage-based deductibles for wind damage rather than fixed-dollar amounts.
Documentation: Maintain a current home inventory with photographs or video of your possessions and home condition. Store this documentation in the cloud or in waterproof containers.
Tree damage: Clarify whether your policy covers tree removal if trees fall without damaging structures. Many policies only cover removal if the tree damages an insured structure.
Additional living expenses: Verify coverage for temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable after a storm.
Food loss: Check if your policy includes coverage for food spoilage during extended power outages.
Vehicle protection: Remember that homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover vehicle damage—you’ll need comprehensive auto insurance for that protection.

For financial preparedness beyond insurance, maintain an emergency fund specifically for disaster recovery. Even with insurance, you’ll likely face immediate out-of-pocket expenses and potential delays in claim processing. Having accessible funds can significantly reduce post-disaster stress and enable faster recovery.

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups face heightened risks during and after derechos, requiring additional planning and preparation. According to the CDC, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and those with chronic medical conditions experience disproportionately higher rates of complications following severe weather events. If you or a family member falls into one of these categories, incorporate these specialized considerations into your emergency plans:

For Elderly Individuals and People with Disabilities

Create a support network of neighbors, friends, and relatives who can assist during emergencies
Register with local emergency management agencies that maintain lists of vulnerable residents
Prepare backup power solutions for essential medical equipment
Stock extra supplies of medications and medical necessities
Ensure mobility aids, hearing aids, and glasses are readily accessible
Develop clear, simple emergency instructions that are easy to follow during stressful situations

For Families with Young Children

Practice storm drills regularly to reduce fear and confusion
Prepare comfort items and activities to keep children occupied during storms and power outages
Stock child-specific supplies including diapers, formula, and age-appropriate foods
Consider noise-canceling headphones for children sensitive to storm sounds
Assign specific, age-appropriate responsibilities to older children during emergencies

For Pet Owners

Ensure pets wear identification tags at all times
Consider microchipping as permanent identification
Prepare carriers or crates for each pet
Stock at least a week’s supply of pet food, medications, and supplies
Research pet-friendly emergency shelters or hotels in advance
Keep current vaccination records accessible for emergency boarding

We typically recommend starting with a basic written plan if your biggest concern is ensuring vulnerable family members receive proper care during emergencies. This plan should include detailed medical information, medication schedules, and specific care instructions that could be followed by neighbors or emergency responders if primary caregivers are unavailable.

Conclusion: Building Long-Term Resilience Against Derechos

As climate scientists project potential increases in derecho frequency and intensity across parts of the United States, developing comprehensive preparation strategies becomes increasingly important. The most resilient households approach derecho preparedness as an ongoing process rather than a one-time event. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide—from structural home improvements to detailed emergency planning—you can significantly reduce both the physical and psychological impacts of these devastating storms.

Remember that preparation occurs on multiple levels: individual readiness, family coordination, and community resilience. The most effective approach addresses all three dimensions, creating overlapping layers of protection. While we cannot control when or where derechos will strike, we can control how prepared we are to face them and how quickly we recover afterward.

Want peace of mind when severe weather threatens? Browse Batten’s expert-recommended emergency preparation products — from backup power solutions to weather radios — and start protecting what matters most.

Sources used for this article:

Derechos: Fierce Wind Storms, https://www.weather.gov/jetstream/derecho

Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters, https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/

Ready.gov: Severe Weather, https://www.ready.gov/severe-weather

Preparing for a Power Outage, https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/needtoknow.html