The Storm known as Beryl knocked out power for millions of Texans along the gulf coast causing many businesses to close until power is restored. Combined with rising summer temperatures, the prolonged power outages created dangerous heat conditions. Some commercial establishments were more heavily affected than others. In fact some were even forced to close due to damage sustained and/or lack of electricity.
Beryl’s Impact on Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
Hospitals in the Houston area have reported difficulties discharging patients to powerless homes, leading to backups in available beds and overload of patient to provider ratios.
The storm’s aftermath has led to several challenges for healthcare facilities. Some facilities are operating on generator power and facing difficulties in providing essential services. Others, including several hospitals, were forced to close. Non-emergency appointments had to be canceled due to the widespread power outages caused by Hurricane Beryl.
Beryl Challenges Commercial Organizations Face
The storm’s impact has led to disruptions in services throughout Texas, with public transport suspended, flights canceled, and various organizations facing operational challenges. It’s impact on the region has raised concerns about Houston’s disaster preparedness. And this comes at a time the region’s commercial organizations are feeling especially vulnerable as stronger storms are predicted this season.
Restaurants and other Power-Dependent Businesses
A lack of electricity due to the storm’s impact has created challenges for businesses, with some forced to close their operations until power is restored. Restaurants and food establishments are significantly impacted, though some were able to remain open despite the power outages. As the outage areas begin to be reconnected, Click2Houston, who listed Houston area restaurants remaining open, has been updating restaurants that are open for business every few days.
Post Storm Damage Tips
The aftermath of Hurricane Beryl has posed significant challenges for businesses, hospitals, and commercial organizations in the Houston area, with widespread power outages and operational disruptions affecting various sectors. We have answered calls from businesses dealing with Beryl’s aftermath, and we can share a few things with you.
Prioritize Post Beryl Safety
Prioritize Safety and well being of employees and customers. It is normal to react to loss of property you worked so hard to build, but first protect your people. Second, secure the premises to prevent further damage or looting.
Assess and Document Damage
Work with restoration pros to assess and document any damages to your business property, facilities and inventory as well as infrastructure. Documenting all of this early on will be key for more a robust financial recovery.
Contact Joe Johnson
Contact your restoration people. Remember Joe Johnson will answer the phone at any hour any day of the year and be there in hours to help you assess the damage.
Contact Your Insurance Provider in the Timeframe
Contact your insurance provider to initiate the claims process. Be aware of the timeline, especially with flood insurance since your claim must be filed within the required timeframe.
Determine Your Continuity Plan
Develop a business continuity plan to ensure essential operations can continue during and after the recovery process. This may involve relocating operations, securing alternative supply chains, and ensuring data backup and recovery.
Stay Informed Post Beryl
Stay informed about post disaster developments. Our restoration process is transparent with communication throughout, but there may be other factors to stay abreast of. Flood watches and other potential risks can change affect your decisions on safety compliance, employee wellbeing and the organization’s recovery.
Participate in Your Community Programs
Many communities offer support and assistance programs to help affected businesses. Don’t be afraid to use this if it helps your business, or volunteer if you can help others. It is a good way to keep your business visibly involved in the community. It is also a good reminder of how much others in your community have suffered.
Beryl has done its damage, but you can be prepared before the next hurricane descends. Contact Joe Johnson for a disaster preparedness plan. It’s free and it can minimize damage from any catastrophe your commercial property could face.