Fire damage Beaumont, Texas, goes way beyond black walls. This community is reeling from the effects of Tropical Storm Imelda, which caused devastating destruction. Beaumont is in the process of repairing homes and figuring out a plan for the future. A recent article by the Beaumont Enterprise offers photos of the area’s efforts at recovery. Read on to learn about the damage wrought by this devastating storm.
White water rapids
The city of Beaumont is without water after Harvey’s floodwaters flooded the pump station. The water supply is expected to be out of service for three to four hours. The city must wait for the water to recede before workers can assess the extent of the damage and begin repairs. However, it is still being determined when the repairs will be completed.
Smoke damage to electronic components
Electronics are a huge part of our lives. They perform critical functions such as information storage, entertainment, and communication and play an integral role in critical business operations. Unfortunately, the effects of smoke and soot on electronics can be devastating. It can also lead to premature failure of the equipment.
While some electronic components are salvageable after a fire, others cannot. Water and heavy soot can penetrate electronic components, causing them to short out or stop working altogether. To improve the chances of restoring these devices, remove them from the affected area and clean them thoroughly. Smoke damage to electronic components can also result in an oily residue on the electronics that can short-circuit and affect other functions.
Smoke damage can also cause a black film to develop on electronics, causing them to overheat and short circuit. Smoke can also damage the insulating properties of the parts. This, in turn, can cause the components to overheat.
Staining on nearby homes
Residents of Beaumont have expressed their concerns about discoloration and staining on nearby homes following the fire damage. The Christchurch City Council is investigating the staining and discoloration and is waiting to receive the results of the paint samples. As of now, around 3300 households are eligible for financial assistance. Staff will review the boundaries of the affected area to determine if other homeowners qualify for the payments.
Staining can be the result of raccoon droppings. These droppings contain airborne agents and dangerous bacteria. Raccoons may also come into contact with electrical wiring or insulation. They may also leave behind urine and feces. They can also pose a threat to home security systems. Moreover, raccoons may fall through a ceiling and enter the living space, causing severe damage.
Severe fire damage to buildings
Fire damage Beaumont can cause significant damage to the structure and personal belongings of a building. It can also pose a safety risk to the occupants. Therefore, restoration should be the focus once the fire has been extinguished. In addition, the corrosive byproducts of smoke and soot can linger and taint the structure and belongings. Therefore, professional fire restoration services are crucial for any building damaged by fire.
While the first photos of the damage from the fire showed black walls and ceilings, the last images show more extensive damage. This damage extends to studs and sheathing. It is impossible to tell if these areas are remnants of a moisture path or left-over charring from the fire. An astute home inspector would note such anomalies.
Wind damage to the drinking water system
Beaumont’s water system suffered damage from Hurricane Harvey. In the aftermath, the city set up temporary pumps to keep water flowing to homes and businesses. The pumps were installed near the city’s treatment plant on Pine Street around 5:30 a.m. on August 31. The city’s emergency management team coordinated with contractors, including Exxon Mobil, Bomac, and Echo, to install the temporary pumps and restore service to the town. The city will now file invoices and seek reimbursement from FEMA.
During the storm, the city’s drinking water system lost power at its primary pump station and secondary healthy water source. As a result, the city was one of the worst-hit areas by the storm. When the storm made landfall, the area received 29 inches of rain. The town will now have to wait until the water levels have drained before service can be restored to the rest of the city.