Storm season is on the horizon for Tulsa and Cleveland, OK and it brings with it flash floods, tornadoes, and hail storms. Natural disasters can strike without warning, leaving vehicles severely damaged and homeowners scrambling to protect their property. Use the following checklist to help you ensure that your home and autos are ready for anything life throws at you!

Why Storm Preparation Matters in Oklahoma

Oklahoma experiences some of the most severe weather in the United States. According to NOAA data, our state averages over 50 tornadoes annually, with hail storms causing millions of dollars in vehicle damage each year. Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and surrounding areas are particularly vulnerable during spring and early summer months.

7 Essential Ways to Prepare Your Vehicle for Storm Season

1. Secure Covered Parking

The single most effective way to protect your vehicle from hail damage is covered parking. If you don't have a garage, consider these alternatives:

Rent a covered parking space during peak storm season
Use a carport or portable car shelter
Park under sturdy overpasses or covered structures when storms approach
Invest in a heavy-duty car cover with hail protection

2. Monitor Weather Alerts Actively

Download weather apps specific to Oklahoma tornado and hail tracking. Set up alerts for:

Severe thunderstorm warnings
Hail storm notifications (especially for hail larger than 1 inch)
Tornado watches and warnings
Flash flood alerts

Popular apps like NOAA Weather Radio and local news station apps provide real-time alerts for Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Sand Springs, and surrounding areas.

3. Create an Emergency Vehicle Kit

Keep these essential items in your vehicle year-round:

Thick blankets or moving blankets (can provide temporary hail protection)
First aid kit
Flashlight and extra batteries
Portable phone charger
Emergency contact information and insurance cards
Non-perishable snacks and water

4. Document Your Vehicle's Condition

Before storm season hits, take comprehensive photos and videos of your vehicle from all angles. This documentation will be invaluable for insurance claims if hail damage occurs. Store these photos in cloud storage for easy access.

5. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Contact your insurance agent to verify you have comprehensive coverage that includes hail damage. Ask about:

Your deductible amount
Claim filing procedures
Preferred repair shops in the Tulsa area
Coverage for diminished value after repairs

6. Plan Multiple Safe Parking Locations

Identify several covered parking options near your:

Home (garage, carport, covered parking)
Workplace (covered employee parking, nearby parking garages)
Frequently visited locations (shopping centers with covered parking)

When storm warnings are issued, you'll know exactly where to move your vehicle quickly.

7. Know Who to Call for Repairs

Save contact information for reputable paintless dent repair (PDR) specialists in Oklahoma before disaster strikes. Hail Depot offers free on-site inspections throughout Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and surrounding areas. Having a trusted repair partner lined up means faster repairs when you need them most.

What to Do Immediately After a Hail Storm

If your vehicle sustains hail damage despite your preparation efforts:

Document the damage with photos and videos immediately
File an insurance claim within 24-48 hours
Schedule a free inspection with a qualified PDR specialist
Don't drive through car washes, as damaged paint can worsen
Get repairs done promptly to prevent rust and further deterioration

Why Choose Paintless Dent Repair for Hail Damage

Paintless dent repair is the gold standard for hail damage repair in Oklahoma. This process:

Preserves your vehicle's original factory paint
Maintains vehicle resale value
Costs significantly less than traditional body work
Can be completed in days rather than weeks
Is covered by most comprehensive insurance policies

Stay Prepared, Stay Protected

Oklahoma storm season doesn't have to mean vehicle damage. By following these seven preparation strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of costly hail damage. Remember, prevention is always easier and less expensive than repairs.

If you do experience hail damage, Hail Depot is here to help with free inspections, insurance claim assistance, and expert paintless dent repair throughout the Tulsa metro area and beyond.

7 Ways to Prepare for Natural Disasters