Pools are a popular addition to homes, offering relaxation and recreation for families across the globe. However, when a hurricane threatens, pool owners often wonder what will happen to their investment during such powerful storms. Hurricanes bring heavy rain, high winds, storm surges, and even flooding—each of which can significantly affect in-ground and above-ground pools. In this article, we take an in-depth look at what happens to pools during hurricanes, the types of damage they may sustain, and how homeowners can protect their pools before, during, and after these natural disasters.
Understanding Hurricanes and Their Impact on Residential Property
Before delving into the effects on pools specifically, it’s essential to understand the mechanics of a hurricane and how such a storm interacts with residential structures. Hurricanes are tropical cyclones characterized by sustained wind speeds of 74 mph (119 km/h) or higher. The five-category Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale categorizes hurricanes based on wind intensity, with Category 5 hurricanes capable of catastrophic damage.
Key elements of hurricane impact include:
- Wind damage: High winds can uproot trees, tear off roofs, and damage outdoor structures.
- Rainfall and flooding: Heavy rains often lead to flash flooding and water damage.
- Storm surge: Especially along coasts, storm surges can inundate properties with seawater.
- Debris: Objects like loose outdoor furniture, garden tools, or broken branches can become airborne projectiles.
All of these components contribute to the potential for pool damage, with water displacement, structural compromise, and chemical imbalances often occurring.
What Happens to In-Ground Pools During a Hurricane?
In-ground pools are typically surrounded by concrete decks and made of durable materials like concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. While they are designed to withstand everyday elements, hurricanes can pose specific risks to their integrity.
Structural Damage from Flooding or Wind
During a hurricane, the ground around in-ground pools can become saturated from heavy rainfall. This saturation leads to soil displacement and hydrostatic pressure buildup underneath the pool structure. Because in-ground pools are heavy and anchored into the earth, they are particularly vulnerable when water accumulates beneath them. In extreme cases, pools can “pop out” of the ground—a phenomenon known as hydrostatic uplift—due to the pressure between the groundwater and the empty or partially filled pool.
Additionally, while reinforced concrete pools are more resilient to wind damage, surrounding structures like pool decks, fences, and screens can be heavily damaged. These components may collapse and cause secondary damage to the pool itself.
Chemical Imbalances and Contamination
Heavy rainfall can significantly dilute chlorine levels in a well-maintained pool, rendering it less effective against algae and bacteria. Furthermore, floodwaters—especially from a storm surge—may introduce saltwater, sediment, and harmful contaminants into the pool. These imbalances can not only ruin the aesthetics of the pool but also pose concerns for water quality and long-term maintenance needs.
Key takeaway: Pool chemistry becomes highly unstable during hurricanes, often requiring extensive rebalancing post-storm.
Debris Accumulation and Liner or Surface Damage
In-ground pools attract floating debris, including leaves, twigs, furniture, and even pieces of the roof or fencing. This not only increases cleaning efforts after the storm but can scratch surfaces, tear vinyl liners, or clog pool systems like skimmers and drains. Fiberglass and concrete pools generally fare better due to their non-flexible surfaces.
What Happens to Above-Ground Pools During Hurricanes?
Above-ground pools are more susceptible to damage than their in-ground counterparts due to their structural design and shallower rootings.
Structural Shift or Collapse
High winds can topple lightweight above-ground pools—especially if they’re not properly anchored. If water pressure on one side of the pool collapses the structure, it can create a safety hazard for the nearby environment.
Floating Hazards from Drains and Water Accumulation
When flooded, the water inside above-ground pools can spill into nearby areas, contributing to further localized flooding or hazards. Additionally, since they sit above ground, it’s difficult to secure them from ground uplift pressures. In contrast to in-ground pools, damage is more likely during hurricanes due to their exposure to external forces.
Pool Cover and Liner Damage
Even if a cover is in place, winds can tear through it, leaving the interior vulnerable to debris and water infiltration. Liners can also stretch or tear due to temperature fluctuation or physical stress during the storm.
Potential for Total Loss
Due to their lighter build and dependence on external support structures, above-ground pools are often considered disposable or replaceable after a major hurricane, especially in areas prone to Category 3 storms or higher.
How to Protect Your Pool During a Hurricane
Proactive preparation can go a long way in minimizing the impact wind, water, and debris have on pools during a hurricane. Here are some of the most effective techniques that pool owners should consider:
Secure Loose Objects and Structures
Before a storm hits, it’s crucial to properly secure objects around the pool area. This includes:
- Furniture
- Pool covers
- Fences
- Enclosure screens
- Outdoor equipment
These objects, if left unsecured, can become debris that causes damage during heavy winds.
Protect the Pool’s Surface and Liner
For in-ground pools, some professionals recommend placing a pool cover or even sandbags along the edges to protect the pool interior from falling debris. In contrast, above-ground pools should be entirely drained or reinforced with supports to prevent floating or structural shifts.
For vinyl-lined pools, removing ladders and railings before the hurricane can reduce the chance of tearing the liner.
Check the Pool Drain Systems
A properly functioning hydrostatic valve can significantly reduce the risk of hydrostatic uplift. Pool owners should ensure their pool’s automatic backup sump pumps and hydrostatic relief valves are tested and in good working order before hurricane season.
Maintain Proper Water Level
Some pool experts advocate leaving the pool filled at normal levels—especially prior to heavy rains—since filling the pool adds weight and may reduce buoyancy pressure beneath. Others might suggest slightly lowering the water level to accommodate additional rainwater. Homeowners should consult with their pool service provider for tailored advice.
Check Your Pool Insurance Coverage
While standard homeowners insurance usually covers swimming pools, the specific terms under which hurricane damage would be covered vary significantly. Policies may differ in regard to saltwater damage, flooding, or equipment repair. Consider additional flood insurance if you live in a coastal or hurricane-prone area.
Post-Hurricane Pool Recovery: Steps After the Storm
After a hurricane passes, ensuring the pool is safe and operational again involves several steps. A systematic approach to recovery helps protect users from injuries, minimizes long-term damage, and can help with insurance claims.
Assessing Potential Damage
Once the storm has passed, begin by visually inspecting the pool and its surrounding area. Check for:
- Cracking or structural shifts
- Liner tears
- Overgrowth or algae accumulation
- Clogged filtration systems
- Water level changes
For in-ground pools, examine the entire deck area for signs of subsidence or unevenness.
Safe Water Testing and Decontamination
It’s important to test the water for chemical balance, pH levels, and the presence of foreign contaminants. Pool water affected by flood or storm surge may have high chlorine demand or contain dangerous bacteria. In severe cases, partial or full draining may be required.
For contaminated or discolored pool water:
- Test for chlorine and pH levels
- Shock the pool, if needed
- Use clarifiers or flocculants to treat suspended solids
- Ensure that filtration cycles are running regularly
Cleaning and Debris Removal
Use brushes, skimmers, and vacuums to remove debris and dirt. For large debris such as branches or furniture, use pool-safe equipment to avoid scratching surfaces. Backwashing filters and emptying skimmer baskets helps restore proper circulation.
Professional Inspection and Repairs
If the pool sustained structural damage such as cracks or leakage, professional help is essential. Licensed pool technicians can not only assess any damage accurately but also help with repairs that might be covered by insurance claims. Additionally, professionals can ensure the safety and hygiene of the water before it is used.
When Pool Removal or Replacement Is Required
If a pool was completely dislodged, structurally compromised, or filled with contaminated water beyond repair, it may be necessary to consider removal or replacement. Homeowners with comprehensive insurance should file claims promptly and document all damages.
Regional Considerations: Pools and Hurricanes in Coastal vs Inland Areas
The impact of hurricanes can vary widely depending on whether the pool is located in coastal or inland regions. Understanding how regional conditions affect pools can help owners better prepare and respond.
Coastal Zones and Storm Surge
In coastal states like Florida, Texas, Louisiana, and North Carolina, the threat of saltwater intrusion (from storm surge) is significant. Saltwater can corrode metal fixtures, damage pumps and filtration systems, and permanently alter pH balance. For fiberglass and vinyl pool owners, saltwater exposure could damage pool walls and liners if not flushed properly.
Inland Areas and Freshwater Flooding
Pools in inland hurricane zones such as Georgia, Alabama, or Tennessee often contend with flash floods and intense rainfall. While freshwater flooding does not pose the same corrosive threat as seawater, sediment accumulation and large volumes of rainwater can affect water chemistry and drainage systems.
Inland pool owners should be particularly mindful of stormwater runoff from nearby structures, which could introduce silt, chemicals, fertilizers, and other industrial contaminants into the pool.
Conclusion: Navigating Pools Through Hurricane Season
Hurricanes pose a real and significant risk to both in-ground and above-ground pools. Understanding what happens to pools during a hurricane empowers homeowners to take necessary precautions before the storm and enact meaningful recovery afterward. With proper preparation, including securing equipment, monitoring water levels, maintaining filtration systems, and inspecting for signs of damage, pool owners can significantly reduce their vulnerability to hurricane-related damage. Furthermore, staying informed about insurance policies and maintenance best practices ensures that pools remain not only safer but also quicker to recover post-storm.
By combining scientific knowledge and practical preparedness, homeowners can better protect their pools and maintain these valuable assets throughout hurricane-prone seasons.
Additional Resources
For pool owners looking to enhance hurricane readiness, here are some recommended steps and tools:
- Contact a licensed pool technician for seasonal hurricane preparedness checks
- Invest in automatic sump pumps or hydrostatic relief systems
- Store pool chemicals in waterproof, elevated containers
- Sign up for hurricane alerts through National Weather Service
- Check with your insurance provider on flood coverage and deductibles
Protecting your pool from hurricanes doesn’t have to be a daunting task—but it does require foresight and proactive effort. By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your investment for years to come.
What happens to above-ground pools during hurricanes?
During hurricanes, above-ground pools are particularly vulnerable to damage due to their exposed structure. High winds can cause the pool walls to collapse or become dislodged, especially if the pool is not properly secured. The force of the wind can also blow debris into the pool, which may puncture liners or scratch surfaces. Additionally, if the pool is drained, the empty structure can be lifted and tossed by the wind, leading to even more severe damage to both the pool and surrounding property.
To mitigate such risks, pool owners should consider adding extra support to the pool’s structure and keeping the pool filled with water. The weight of the water helps stabilize the pool and reduces the chance of it being moved by winds. Some owners install windbreaks or barriers to reduce the impact of gusts. After the hurricane passes, it’s essential to inspect for structural damage, remove debris, and ensure the pool’s filtration system is functioning properly before use.
Can in-ground pools survive a hurricane without damage?
In-ground pools are generally more resilient to hurricane conditions than above-ground pools due to their structure being partially or fully embedded in the ground. However, they are not immune to damage. Intense rains can overflow the pool, washing out surrounding decks or paving. Heavy winds can introduce large amounts of debris like tree limbs and leaves, which can damage pool surfaces or clog the filtration system. In extreme cases, flooding or soil erosion can compromise the integrity of the pool’s foundation, leading to long-term structural issues.
Homeowners should take preparatory steps to protect in-ground pools during a hurricane. Lowering the water level slightly before a storm can help prevent overflow, while securing loose pool equipment and covering the pool can limit debris accumulation. If flooding is a concern, sandbags around the pool area may help. After the storm, it’s important to assess the pool for damage, clean out debris, and restore proper chemical balance before resuming use.
Do swimming pools act as flood drains during hurricanes?
Swimming pools, especially in-ground ones, can help absorb some excess rainwater during hurricanes, potentially reducing localized flooding. However, this effect is typically minimal compared to the overall volume of water introduced during a major storm. Once a pool is full, any additional water will spill over, which can lead to erosion around the pool’s edges or damage nearby structures like decks or fences. In some cases, overflowing water may flow into the home, particularly if the drainage system is overwhelmed.
Pooling overflow should not be relied upon as a flood mitigation strategy. Homeowners should ensure proper drainage systems are in place around the pool area. During a hurricane, keeping the pool cover secure but allowing for controlled water release can minimize damage. If the water level rises dramatically due to heavy rainfall, using a submersible pump can help lower the level before it causes structural issues.
How should I prepare my pool before a hurricane?
Preparing your pool before a hurricane can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Start by securing all loose items around the pool area, including furniture, toys, and equipment, which can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Next, consider lowering the water level slightly—usually 4–6 inches below the skimmer—for in-ground pools to prevent overflow caused by heavy rains, while making sure not to drain the pool completely, as it could float out of the ground.
Additionally, cover the pool with a strong, hurricane-rated pool cover and anchor it securely. For above-ground pools, add support structures and keep the pool full to reduce wind impact. Turn off electricity to pool equipment and place sandbags around electrical components to prevent water damage. Document the pool’s condition before the storm with photographs for insurance purposes. Taking these precautions helps ensure that your pool survives the hurricane with minimal damage.
Is it safe to swim in a pool after a hurricane?
Swimming in a pool immediately after a hurricane is generally not safe, even if the water appears clear. The water may be contaminated with debris, chemicals, or pollutants from the surrounding environment, especially if floodwaters have entered the pool. Additionally, damaged equipment or exposed wiring can pose electrical hazards. The chemical balance in the pool is likely disrupted, which can irritate skin and eyes or cause algae growth if not corrected.
Before returning to the pool, owners should conduct a thorough inspection for structural damage, clean out visible debris, and test the water for proper chemical levels. Shocking the pool with chlorine and running the filtration system continuously for several hours can help restore water clarity and safety. It is also important to ensure that surrounding areas are clear of hazards and that all electrical equipment is functioning safely. Only after these steps should swimmers re-enter the pool.
Can hurricane-force winds cause a pool to overflow significantly?
Hurricane-force winds themselves don’t directly cause a pool to overflow, but they often accompany intense rainfall that can quickly raise the water level beyond the pool’s capacity. Rainfall during a hurricane can exceed several inches per hour, leading to rapid water accumulation in in-ground pools. When combined with strong surface winds, rainwater may also enter the pool more aggressively, especially if the pool is in an exposed area or surrounded by surfaces that funnel water toward it.
This overflow can cause erosion around the pool, damage to surrounding structures, and potential water intrusion into nearby buildings or crawl spaces. To prevent excessive overflow, homeowners can lower the water level slightly before the storm. However, it’s important not to drain the pool completely, as this can lead to it floating out of the ground due to rising water tables or saturated soil. Using a pool cover and ensuring good drainage in the surrounding area can also help manage excess stormwater effectively.
What steps should I take to clean and restore my pool after a hurricane?
After a hurricane has passed, the first step in restoring your pool is to inspect it for structural damage, such as cracks in the walls or floor, leaks, or damage to the surrounding deck and fencing. If there is visible damage or signs of leakage, contact a professional pool service before proceeding further. Once structural stability is confirmed, begin removing large debris like branches and leaves using a net or skimmer. For smaller particles and silt, a manual vacuum may be necessary after allowing the water to settle for a few hours.
Next, test the water for chemical balance, adjusting the pH and chlorine levels as needed. Run the filtration system continuously until the water clears and remains chemically stable. If the water is heavily contaminated or murky, consider partially draining and replacing it with fresh water. Check all equipment, especially the pump and heater, for signs of water damage or power issues before turning them on. Finally, ensure that the pool area is free of hazards and that all safety equipment is in place before resuming use.