Wind that is different from everywhere else
Parts of southern Wyoming record some of the highest average wind speeds in the lower 48 states, and the stretch of Interstate 80 between Laramie and Rawlins, along with the I-25 corridor near Wheatland and Chugwater, is regularly closed to light, high-profile vehicles. Winter and spring downslope winds off the Laramie, Medicine Bow and Wind River ranges can gust well past 70 mph. Shingles crease and lift, ridge caps blow off, siding unclips, and doors on shops and barns are ripped from their tracks.
Tornadoes are less frequent than on the central plains, but they happen. The July 1979 Cheyenne tornado damaged hundreds of homes and remains among the most destructive in state history, and the 2005 Wright tornado in Campbell County was deadly. The 1987 Teton–Yellowstone tornado showed that strong tornadoes can even cross high mountain terrain.
Where wind estimates go wrong
- “Wear and tear” versus storm creasing. A creased shingle has lost its seal and its wind rating. Documented creasing across a slope is storm damage, not age.
- Spot repairs on brittle roofs. Older shingles often cannot be lifted to replace a neighbor without breaking. Repairability testing belongs in the file.
- Siding approved one panel at a time, when the profile is discontinued and the elevation will not match.
- Outbuildings and fences missed or valued as if they were new kit buildings.
- Debris impact to the opposite side of the house from the wind direction, overlooked on a fast inspection.
Documenting a wind loss
Write down the date and the time the wind was worst, keep any shingles or trim that blew off, photograph all four elevations and the yard before you clean up, and save receipts for tarps and board-up. Weather station data from the nearest airport — Cheyenne, Laramie, Rawlins, Casper, Rock Springs — can confirm gust speeds for the date of loss.
Questions about wind & tornado claim appraisal
The adjuster says my shingles were already worn. What now?
Ask for the basis in writing and get an independent inspection. Creased or unsealed shingles across a slope point to wind; uniform granule loss points to age. A panel can weigh both.
Does my wind/hail deductible apply to a winter windstorm?
Many policies apply a separate wind/hail deductible to any windstorm, not just summer storms. Check your declarations page and endorsements.
Can appraisal cover my barn and fence?
Yes, if they are covered property. Each item is valued on its own, subject to the limits of the coverage that applies.