If you smell gas after a storm, your immediate priority is safety. Evacuate everyone from the building and move to a safe distance away from the structure.

Then, from a safe location outside, call your gas company’s emergency line or 911 to report the suspected gas leak.

TL;DR:

  • Evacuate immediately if you smell gas after a storm.
  • Call your gas company or 911 from a safe distance.
  • Do not use any electronics or create sparks.
  • Wait for professionals to assess the situation.
  • Understand storm damage can compromise gas lines.

What Should You Do If You Smell Gas After a Storm?

A storm can be a stressful event. Afterward, you might be dealing with a range of issues. One of the most concerning is a gas smell. If you detect that telltale rotten egg odor, it’s a serious warning sign. Your immediate reaction can make a big difference in preventing a dangerous situation.

Your Safety is Paramount

The smell of natural gas is often described as similar to rotten eggs. This is because a chemical called mercaptan is added to make leaks detectable. If you notice this smell, the first and most critical step is to evacuate. Get everyone out of the house or building quickly and calmly. Don’t waste time trying to find the source of the smell yourself.

Do Not Create Sparks

While evacuating, avoid turning lights on or off. Don’t use any electrical appliances or devices. This includes your cell phone inside the building. Even a small spark from a light switch or a phone could ignite natural gas. Leave pets inside if it means a delay; get them out as quickly as possible. Your goal is to get everyone to safety without creating any ignition sources.

Call for Help From a Safe Distance

Once you are a safe distance away from the building, you can use your cell phone or a neighbor’s phone. Call your gas utility’s emergency number. You can also call 911. Clearly state that you smell gas and suspect a leak. Be prepared to provide your address and a description of the situation. This is not the time to delay calling for professional help.

What Not To Do at All

Never try to locate a gas leak yourself. Do not try to fix any suspected damage to gas lines. Do not light matches or lighters. Do not start or stop any electrical appliances. And importantly, do not assume the smell will just go away. These actions could have catastrophic consequences. Acting fast and safely is key.

How Storms Can Affect Gas Lines

Severe weather, like heavy storms, can unfortunately impact underground and above-ground gas lines. High winds can cause trees to fall, potentially damaging service lines. Flooding can compromise the integrity of pipes or cause underground shifts. Even strong vibrations from thunder can sometimes cause issues. It’s important to understand that storm damage can be widespread.

Underground Gas Line Risks

When the ground saturates from heavy rain or flooding, it can become unstable. This instability can shift pipelines. A damaged underground gas line might not be immediately obvious. You might only notice the smell when the gas begins to seep into your home. Research shows that hidden signs of water damage can sometimes precede gas line issues. It’s wise to be aware of where moisture travels inside walls, as this can indicate deeper problems.

Above-Ground and Connection Points

Gas meters and the pipes connecting to your home can also be vulnerable. Falling debris, strong winds, or even impacts from flying objects during a storm can cause damage. The connection points are particularly sensitive. If you notice any visible damage to your gas meter or the pipes leading into your house, report it immediately. This is a clear indicator of potential danger.

The Smell of Danger: Beyond Rotten Eggs

While the rotten egg smell is the most common indicator, gas leaks can sometimes present differently. You might hear a hissing sound near a gas line. You might also see dirt blowing up from the ground near a gas pipe. Sometimes, dead vegetation in an otherwise green area can signal an underground leak. These are all urgent signals that require professional attention.

What About Propane Tanks?

If your home uses propane, storm damage can affect your propane tank. The tank could be knocked over, damaged, or even disconnected. Propane is also flammable and has a distinct odorant added. If you have a propane tank and smell gas after a storm, follow the same safety procedures: evacuate and call for help from a safe distance. Never underestimate the risks associated with gas leaks.

What to Do While Waiting for Professionals

Once you’ve evacuated and called for help, your job is to remain safe. Stay far away from the affected building until emergency responders or the gas company declares it safe. Keep others away from the area as well. If you have young children or elderly individuals with you, ensure they are comfortable and safe in your temporary location.

Preventing Further Issues

While you wait, do not try to re-enter the building for any reason. Even if you think the smell has dissipated, it’s best to wait for the all-clear. The gas company will have specialized equipment to detect and measure gas levels. They can pinpoint the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs. Your role is to ensure everyone’s safety and cooperate with the experts.

When Can You Safely Re-enter?

You should only re-enter your home or building once the gas company or emergency services have given you explicit permission. They will confirm that the gas levels are safe and that the leak has been repaired or contained. They might also advise you on ventilation procedures. Following their instructions is vital to ensure your home is safe to occupy again.

Assessing Other Storm Damage

After a storm, it’s common to have multiple types of damage. While dealing with a gas leak is the top priority, you’ll likely need to assess other issues too. This could include water damage, wind damage to your roof, or structural problems. Understanding how to protect your home before a storm is helpful, but dealing with the aftermath requires a different approach. For instance, if you’re concerned about how to protect valuables from water damage before a storm, that’s a separate preparation step.

Considering Professional Restoration

Once the gas leak is resolved and your home is deemed safe, you’ll need to address any other damage. Water damage can lead to mold growth and structural issues if not handled promptly. It’s wise to have professionals assess the full extent of the damage. They can identify problems you might not see, like hidden signs of water damage or understand where moisture travels inside walls.

Here is a quick checklist for when you smell gas after a storm:

  • Evacuate immediately with all occupants.
  • Do not use any electronics or create sparks.
  • Call the gas company or 911 from a safe distance.
  • Stay away from the building until cleared by professionals.
  • Do not attempt any repairs yourself.

The Role of HVAC Systems After a Storm

Storms can also impact your HVAC system. Debris can enter outdoor units, and water can affect indoor components. If a gas leak occurred, or if there was significant water intrusion, your HVAC system could be compromised. It’s important to consider how to prepare your HVAC system before storm season. If contamination is suspected, it could lead to mold inside HVAC vents or affect air quality after HVAC contamination.

Protecting Your Home’s Exterior

Storms can batter the outside of your home too. High winds and flying debris can damage siding and exterior paint. Heavy rain can lead to water pooling and seeping into foundations. Protecting your exterior paint from storm and water damage is important for the long-term health of your home. This includes checking for and addressing hidden signs of water damage, understanding where moisture travels inside walls.

Navigating Insurance Claims

Dealing with storm damage often involves insurance claims. Understanding your policy and the process can be confusing. Sometimes, hiring a public adjuster can help you get the compensation you deserve. They can assess damage, like roof leaks after severe storms, and help you navigate claims for storm damage signs homeowners miss.

Action Safety Priority Who to Call
Smell gas after storm Immediate Evacuation Gas Company Emergency Line or 911
Visible damage to gas lines/meter Evacuate and Stay Clear Gas Company Emergency Line or 911
Water damage suspected Document and Mitigate Water Damage Restoration Professional
Structural damage suspected Secure Area and Assess Structural Engineer or Restoration Company
Need help with insurance Gather Documentation Public Adjuster or Insurance Agent

Conclusion

When you smell gas after a storm, remember that your safety and the safety of your loved ones are the absolute top priorities. Evacuate immediately, do not create sparks, and call for professional help from a safe distance. Storms can cause a variety of damages, and addressing gas leaks requires immediate, expert attention. Once the immediate danger is cleared, Tulsa Damage Restore Pros can help you assess and restore other storm-related damages to your property, ensuring a safe and complete recovery.

What if the gas smell is faint?

Even a faint smell of gas should be treated as a serious potential leak. Natural gas is highly flammable. It’s always better to err on the side of caution. Do not wait to get help if you suspect any gas odor.

Can a storm cause gas leaks underground?

Yes, storms can absolutely cause gas leaks underground. Flooding can saturate the soil, leading to shifts that can damage buried gas lines. Falling trees or debris can also impact underground infrastructure. This is why it’s important to be aware of potential hidden signs of water damage.

Should I try to turn off my gas valve?

In most cases, you should not attempt to turn off your gas valve yourself, especially if you are unsure how. The process of trying to locate and access the valve could create sparks or further damage. It’s best to leave this to the gas company or emergency responders. Call a professional right away.

How long does it take for gas to dissipate after a leak is fixed?

The time it takes for gas to dissipate depends on ventilation and the severity of the leak. Professionals will use air monitoring equipment to ensure the area is safe. They will likely ventilate the space thoroughly. Always wait for their confirmation that it’s safe to re-enter. Your home’s ventilation system may need checking after such an event.

What if I smell gas but my neighbors don’t?

If you smell gas and your neighbors do not, it could indicate a leak specific to your property or a section of the gas line leading directly to your home. This doesn’t make the situation any less urgent. Act before it gets worse and follow the same immediate safety steps: evacuate and call for professional assistance.

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