Severe Storms risk in California

Who this hits hardest

A roof in Fresno doesn't look like a roof in Miami. But California still gets severe storms — just not as often. The statewide rating is level 2 out of 5. That's low, but it's not a pass to ignore the sky.

The people who get hit hardest are often in mobile homes, older houses with worn roofs, and neighborhoods shaded by big trees. The Central Valley — Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield — sees more thunderstorms than the coast. The Sierra foothills get summer storms that throw lightning and start fires. The deserts, like Imperial and San Bernardino counties, get monsoon bursts from July through September. Coastal areas from San Diego to the Bay Area get fewer storms, but when one rolls through, it can drop hail and straight-line winds that peel back shingles.

Severe storms in California can also spawn tornadoes, though they're usually weak and short-lived. The bigger threats are hail, lightning, and downburst winds. A downburst can hit 60 to 80 mph and flatten a fence or take out a garage door. In recent years, hail has damaged roofs and cars in the Sacramento Valley.

If you're buying a house in California, storm risk probably isn't your first worry. Wildfire and earthquake usually top the list. But a single severe thunderstorm can cause quick, expensive damage. And your insurance might not cover all of it. Renters, too, should know that their landlord's insurance won't cover their belongings. Renters insurance does.

After the event — claims and repairs

Here's the messy part. Your standard homeowners policy usually covers wind and hail damage to your roof, siding, and windows. It covers lightning damage, including fires started by a strike. But it almost never covers flooding. If a storm dumps rain and water pools against your foundation, that's a flood claim. You need separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private carrier.

Mudslides? Many policies call that 'earth movement' and exclude it. Earthquake is also excluded. So don't assume a storm claim will cover a quake that happens at the same time.

After a storm, take photos and video before you clean up. Call your insurer right away. Get a written scope of work from a licensed contractor. Be wary of door-to-door repair crews after a hail event — they often want full payment up front and disappear.

If your claim is denied, ask for the specific policy language. In California, you can file a complaint with the Department of Insurance. But it's better to know your coverage before the storm. Check your declarations page for your wind/hail deductible. Some California policies have a separate deductible for wind damage, often 1% to 2% of your home's insured value. Keep a written inventory of damaged items. Your adjuster will need it.

Before the season starts

I'd spend my first $200 on tree trimming and a NOAA weather radio. That's the highest-value prep for most California homeowners. A dead branch over your roof is a claim waiting to happen. A radio that works when the power's out can wake you up when a severe thunderstorm warning drops at 2 a.m.

Here's a short weekend plan:

• Trim trees and shrubs away from your house and power lines.
• Secure patio furniture, grills, and anything that can become a projectile in 60 mph winds.
• Check your roof — cracked shingles, loose flashing, clogged gutters.
• Review your insurance policy. Know your wind/hail deductible and whether you have flood coverage.
• Sign up for local alerts through Cal OES or your county emergency office.

If you live in a mobile home, make sure it's tied down. Straight-line winds can flip an unanchored home. If you have solar panels, ask your installer about hail rating. Most panels handle small hail, but big stones can crack the glass.

If you live in an area that flooded after a recent wildfire, watch the forecast closely. Burn scars make flash flooding more likely, even from a storm that doesn't look severe. Keep a go-bag with water, a flashlight, and a battery pack. Know where your safe room is — a small interior room on the lowest floor. If you're in a mobile home, plan to evacuate to a sturdy building.

Questions we get

Does homeowners insurance in California cover hail damage to my roof?

Usually yes. Hail damage is typically covered under your dwelling coverage. But some policies have a separate wind/hail deductible, often 1% to 2% of your home's insured value. Check your declarations page.

Do I need flood insurance if I don't live in a flood zone?

You might. Flooding can happen anywhere in California, especially after a wildfire leaves a burn scar. Burned soil repels water, so even a moderate rain can cause flash flooding. NFIP policies are available in most communities.

What's the difference between a severe thunderstorm watch and warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for severe storms in the next few hours. A warning means a severe storm is happening or imminent — take cover now. The NWS issues both. Sign up for wireless emergency alerts on your phone.

Official sources

• California Governor's Office of Emergency Services
• NOAA Storm Prediction Center
• NWS Thunderstorm Safety
• Ready.gov – Thunderstorms & Lightning