Thunderstorms bring dramatic skies, booming thunder, and much-needed rain. But along with the cool breeze and rain showers comes something less pleasant: high humidity. After a thunderstorm, the air can feel heavy, sticky, and uncomfortable—especially inside your home.
Too much indoor humidity doesn’t just make you sweat; it can also lead to mold, mildew, musty odors, and even damage to furniture or electronics. In this article, we’ll explore easy, effective ways to control humidity in your home, especially during stormy weather.
Why Does Humidity Rise During Thunderstorms?
Thunderstorms are powered by moist, warm air. When a storm rolls through, it pulls moisture from the ground and releases it back into the air, often raising outdoor humidity to 80% or higher. That moisture can easily find its way into your home through open windows, leaks, or even just the air you bring in while coming and going.
Why Controlling Humidity Matters
High humidity indoors can cause a range of problems:
- Mold and mildew growth (especially in bathrooms, basements, and closets)
- Dust mites thrive in damp environments
- Uncomfortable living conditions (sticky skin, difficulty sleeping)
- Damage to wood, paint, and electronics
- Bad odors that linger in upholstery and carpets
Ideal indoor humidity levels are between 30% and 50%. Keeping levels within this range keeps your home comfortable and safe.
Simple Ways to Control Humidity During Thunderstorms
Here’s a list of practical steps—many of them quick and affordable—that can help you manage moisture in your home.
1. Close Windows and Doors During a Storm
It may be tempting to let in the fresh air after rain, but that moist outdoor air can sneak in and raise indoor humidity.
What to do:
- Keep windows and doors closed when it’s storming or muggy outside.
- Use weatherstripping to seal gaps in windows and door frames.
- Install door sweeps to block moisture-laden air from entering underneath doors.
2. Use a Dehumidifier
This is one of the most effective tools for keeping humidity in check.
Tips for using a dehumidifier:
- Place it in areas most affected by humidity, like basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.
- Empty the water tank regularly, or choose a model with a drainage hose.
- Set it to maintain humidity between 40% and 50%.
Many models now come with automatic sensors that adjust settings based on real-time humidity levels.
3. Run Exhaust Fans
Thunderstorm or not, daily activities like cooking and showering can add to indoor moisture.
To reduce humidity:
- Turn on the bathroom exhaust fan during and after showers.
- Use the kitchen range hood while cooking—especially when boiling water.
- If you have a laundry room exhaust fan, use it when running the dryer.
Make sure all exhaust fans vent to the outside, not into the attic or another room.
4. Improve Air Circulation
Stagnant air traps moisture, making rooms feel muggy. Good airflow helps moisture evaporate more efficiently.
Ways to improve airflow:
- Use ceiling or oscillating fans to move air.
- Keep interior doors open to allow air to flow between rooms.
- Arrange furniture so it doesn’t block vents or windows.
Good air circulation also helps your air conditioner and dehumidifier work more effectively.
5. Use Your Air Conditioner Wisely
Air conditioners don’t just cool the air—they also remove moisture. But only if they’re used properly.
Tips:
- Set your A/C to “auto,” not “on,” so it can complete full cooling cycles and dehumidify effectively.
- Keep filters clean to improve airflow.
- Ensure windows and doors are closed tightly when running A/C.
- Make sure your unit is properly sized for your space. An oversized unit cools too quickly without removing enough moisture.
6. Fix Leaks and Water Intrusion Points
Water getting into your home during or after a thunderstorm can spike humidity fast.
Check for:
- Leaky roofs or gutters
- Basement seepage or puddling
- Plumbing leaks under sinks or behind toilets
- Cracks in foundations or window frames
What to do:
- Seal foundation cracks with waterproof sealant.
- Install a sump pump in areas prone to basement flooding.
- Clean and repair gutters to direct water away from your home.
7. Dry Wet Items Promptly
Wet towels, rugs, clothes, or furniture after a storm? Don’t leave them sitting around. They add moisture to the air and may start to smell or grow mildew.
Action steps:
- Hang damp towels and clothes to dry outdoors or use a dryer.
- Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from carpets or rugs.
- Wipe down wet surfaces with a dry towel as soon as possible.
8. Add Moisture-Absorbing Materials
You can also use natural or store-bought solutions to trap excess moisture in trouble spots.
Options include:
- Silica gel packs (great for closets or drawers)
- Charcoal briquettes in open containers
- Baking soda in bowls in small areas
- Calcium chloride moisture absorbers (like DampRid)
These are especially helpful in smaller spaces or areas where fans or dehumidifiers aren’t practical.
9. Use Houseplants Carefully
While plants can help purify the air, they also release moisture. During stormy, humid weather, too many indoor plants can add to the problem.
Tips:
- Move some plants outside or into well-ventilated areas.
- Avoid overwatering during humid months.
- Choose plants that don’t release as much moisture, like succulents or snake plants.
10. Monitor Humidity with a Hygrometer
You can’t control what you can’t measure. A hygrometer is an inexpensive device (often under $15) that tells you exactly how humid your home is.
Place one in each major room—especially basements, bathrooms, and bedrooms—so you can monitor and adjust conditions before problems start.
Final Thoughts
Thunderstorms may cool down the air for a little while, but the humidity they bring can hang around much longer—especially inside your home. By taking simple steps like using a dehumidifier, running exhaust fans, and sealing up leaks, you can stay comfortable and protect your home from moisture-related damage.
Remember: it’s easier to prevent humidity problems than to fix them after the fact. With a little attention and the right tools, your home can stay dry, fresh, and comfortable—no matter how wild the weather gets outside.
