Main Number 561.853.TENT 8368

Severe Weather Prep

As you’re planning your outdoor event, you may wonder, “What if the weather doesn’t cooperate and there’s a storm during my event?” That’s a great question. With a little bit of prep work, you’ll have a great event – rain or shine!

Here are a few things you should do ahead of time when planning your event:

  • Have an evacuation plan for the extreme worst-case scenario
  • Designate one person to decide when the tent should be evacuated in extreme weather
  • Place the tent in an area that is not prone to flooding
  • Be sure to rent tent sidewalls
  • Have a rain plan for any outdoor portion of your event
  • Consider renting a covered walkway for your guests to enter the tent
  • Consider renting an elevated floor if the ground may become muddy

If severe weather is imminent:

  • Keep an eye on the weather forecast
  • If high winds are expected, open the tent sidewalls to allow the wind to blow through the tent
  • Tighten the ratchet straps on the tent

If a storm does arrive during your event, you’ll be prepared. All of our tents are very sturdy and are designed to withstand storms. Of course, in the case of a very severe storm, tropical storm, or hurricane you should vacate the tent. Tents are designed to flex and move slightly during a high wind, but here are some signs that the tent is becoming unsafe:

  • Wind speed is over 38 miles per hour
  • Tent poles are lifting off the ground
  • Tent stakes are pulling out of the ground
  • Tent fabric is starting to tear
  • Nearby trees begin to fall
  • Lightning is striking nearby

If any of these conditions occur or you feel unsafe inside the tent, immediately evacuate everyone to a safe building. If no building is available, guests can go to their cars until the storm passes and the tent is secure.

If you are in a tent during a thunderstorm, keep everyone at least five feet from any tent pole. If the lightning is nearby evacuate everyone from the tent.

Grimes Events & Party Tents is always monitoring the weather. If a severe storm or hurricane is on the horizon, we take the tent down and will work with you on rescheduling your event.

Even though many events have beautiful weather, it’s always best to plan for the worst so that your event can be a success either way!