Spring in Portland may be famous for rain, but summer storms can be just as destructive—especially when they arrive unexpectedly. From flash floods in Southeast Portland to storm drain backups in Beaverton, May is the critical moment to prepare your home for what’s coming next.
At 911 Restoration of Portland, we help local homeowners take proactive steps to prevent water damage before the summer weather patterns shift. Here’s how you can storm-proof your home now—before it’s too late.
Why Summer Storms Are a Threat in Portland
Portland’s summer weather brings more than just sunshine. A sudden change in temperature can generate fast-moving thunderstorms that overwhelm drainage systems and expose weaknesses in home waterproofing.
Here’s what typically causes issues this time of year:
- Overloaded gutters and downspouts after heavy pollen and spring debris
- Clogged storm drains in low-lying neighborhoods like Lents or Foster-Powell
- Poor yard grading, which can redirect water toward your foundation
- Outdated or failing sump pumps in basements and crawl spaces
- Roof damage or missing shingles from the last storm season
These vulnerabilities aren’t always obvious—but when a summer storm hits, they become major liabilities.
What to Check in Your Home Before Storm Season
Now is the ideal time for a full home storm-readiness inspection. Focus on the following areas:
- Roofing – Check for loose shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of rot
- Gutters and Downspouts – Clear out leaves and make sure downspouts extend away from the house
- Basement Walls and Floors – Look for water stains, mildew, or bubbling paint
- Sump Pump Systems – Test them by pouring water into the pit to ensure automatic operation
- Yard Drainage – After a rain, look for pooling water near the foundation
If any of these checks raise concerns, bring in a restoration expert to diagnose the issue. Small repairs now can prevent catastrophic water damage later.
Flooding Isn’t Just a River Problem
Many Portland homeowners assume they’re safe from flooding if they don’t live near the Willamette or Columbia rivers. But urban flash flooding is a different beast.
Heavy rainfall can overwhelm city storm drains and back up into homes through:
- Basement windows and window wells
- Garage doors
- Ground-level vents or floor drains
- Foundation cracks
- Sump pump failure or overflow
It only takes one inch of floodwater to cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage. That’s why we emphasize prevention every May, before the weather shifts from soggy to severe.
How 911 Restoration of Portland Can Help
We offer both preventive services and emergency response. Whether you’re preparing ahead or recovering from a storm, our team is here 24/7. Services include:
- Storm readiness inspections
- Gutter and drainage evaluations
- Foundation waterproofing
- Sump pump installation and testing
- Water extraction and structural drying
- Full-service flood restoration and mold prevention
Every Portland neighborhood has its own flood risk profile. From Hillsdale to Gresham, we know the local challenges and how to address them quickly and professionally.
Protect What Matters—Before It’s Underwater
Summer should be a time to enjoy the outdoors, not deal with soggy carpets and insurance claims. By preparing in May, you can ensure your home stays dry, safe, and secure all season long.
If you need help assessing your home’s risk, or if you’ve already experienced water damage, 911 Restoration of Portland is ready to help. You can also schedule an inspection today and get ahead of the next storm before it hits.