Storm & Freeze Risk Check for Joplin

The Four States has its own pattern. Tornado-alley storms and hail breach roofs, full basements take storm runoff and wall seepage, sump pumps fail during the same storm that floods them, winter cold snaps split exposed pipes, and Shoal and Turkey Creek and low crossings flash flood in heavy rain.

Have the roof and flashing inspected, keep gutters clear, extend downspouts and grade soil away from the foundation, seal basement wall cracks, add a battery backup to the sump pump, and insulate exposed pipes before winter. Know where your main shut-off is so you can stop an inside leak fast.

The most common sump failure is a power loss during the storm, which is exactly when you need the pump most. A battery or water powered backup keeps the basement protected when the power goes out, which is the single best upgrade for a Joplin basement.

If it is safe, shut the water off at the main, stay off the wet floor, keep clear of outlets and the panel, and call. If the water is a sewer or drain backup or storm flood water, do not touch it, it is contaminated. Whoever answers the Joplin line talks you through the rest while a crew is on the way.