Spring in East Texas brings some of the most severe weather in the state. Tornadoes, damaging hail, straight-line wind events, and flash flooding routinely affect Tyler, Longview, and the surrounding region between March and June. Most homes are not prepared. A basic checklist changes that significantly.
When Is East Texas Storm Season?
East Texas experiences its most severe storm season between March and June, with significant risk of tornadoes, hail, high winds, and flash flooding. A second active period occurs in September and October with tropical weather systems affecting the region from the Gulf. The spring window is the most predictable and the one that most benefits from pre-season preparation.
Roof Inspection: The Highest Priority
Have a qualified roofing contractor inspect your roof before storm season. Identify and address:
- Missing, cracked, or loose shingles from the previous storm season
- Failed or lifted flashing at vents, chimneys, and skylights
- Ridge cap integrity and soffit and fascia condition
- Any areas of sagging or irregular surface that indicates decking issues below
A roof that fails in a spring storm allows water into the attic that then migrates into the home. This is the most preventable storm damage scenario. A pre-season inspection and repair is far less expensive than the restoration that follows a roof failure during a storm.
Gutters and Drainage
- Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure full drainage capacity before heavy rain season
- Confirm downspouts direct water away from the foundation by at least six feet
- Check that surface grading at the foundation slopes away from the structure, not toward it
Tree Hazard Assessment
Identify trees with major limb overhang above the roof or adjacent to the home. Have a qualified arborist assess limbs that could fail in high wind before storm season. Fallen limbs during storms cause structural breaches that allow immediate water intrusion. In East Texas, with its large hardwood trees common near residential areas, this is one of the most underestimated risks.
Generator and Sump Pump Readiness
- Test sump pumps before storm season for homes with areas prone to flooding
- If you have a generator, confirm it starts, has adequate fuel, and the transfer switch works correctly
An East Texas Story: A Kaufman County Home and the Limb That Came Through the Roof
A Kaufman County homeowner had a large post oak limb, approximately 12 inches in diameter, over the garage for years. It had shown no obvious sign of stress or disease. During a late-April storm with straight-line winds, the limb came down on the garage roof, creating a four-foot breach in the roof decking. It had rained two inches that night before the storm. After the breach, an additional inch of rain fell directly into the garage interior.
Cantt Restoration responded for emergency tarping, water extraction from the garage, and moisture mapping of the garage ceiling and adjacent wall. Had the limb been assessed and removed during the prior winter, the loss would not have occurred.
If Storm Damage Happens Despite Preparation
Call Cantt Restoration immediately. We respond 24/7 for storm emergency tarping, board-up, water extraction, and structural drying across East Texas. We document the full scope with Matterport 3D scanning before any work begins.
Call Cantt Restoration 24/7
(903) 251-9525Sometimes the damage is minimal and you might not need us. We will tell you that too.
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Cantt Restoration serves all of East Texas , Smith County, Cherokee County, Wood County, Gregg County, and beyond. Based in Arp, TX. Call (903) 251-9525.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, insurance, or professional restoration advice. Cantt Restoration is not a policy expert, attorney, or public adjuster. Every loss situation is unique. For questions about your coverage, contact your insurance company, adjuster, or agent directly. For assessment of your specific situation, consult a qualified restoration professional. Cantt Restoration follows ANSI/IICRC S500, S520, and S740 standards on every job.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is East Texas storm season?
East Texas experiences its most severe storm season between March and June, with significant risk of tornadoes, hail, high winds, and flash flooding. A second active period occurs in September and October with tropical weather systems. The spring window is the most predictable and the one that most benefits from pre-season preparation.
What is the most important pre-storm preparation for an East Texas home?
Roof inspection is the highest priority. A compromised roof is the most common entry point for storm water damage. Gutter cleaning, foundation drainage confirmation, and tree hazard assessment are also critical pre-season steps.
What does Cantt Restoration do after storm damage?
Cantt Restoration provides 24/7 storm emergency response including tarping and board-up for structural breaches, water extraction and structural drying, complete documentation with Matterport 3D scanning, and contents pack-out for storm-flooded areas.
How do I know if a tree near my home is a storm hazard?
Signs of potential tree hazard include dead limbs, cavities or decay in the trunk, unusual leaning that was not present before, root damage from construction or landscaping, and limbs that overhang the roof directly. A qualified arborist can assess specific trees and recommend action before storm season.
What should I do immediately after storm damage to my home?
If the structure is safe to enter, video and photograph the damage before moving anything. Call Cantt Restoration at (903) 251-9525 for emergency response. Do not attempt to remove debris from compromised roof areas yourself. Wait for professional assessment before entering areas with structural damage.