Woman reveals three features of her weather-proof home that saved them during Hurricane Helene

When Hurricane Helene hit the southeastern United States on September 24, 2024, many homes were reduced to splinters. However, a family from Florida managed to stay safe in their specially designed house that could withstand the tropical cyclone. When the hurricane made landfall in the southern states of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, HomeGoods spokesperson Jenny Reimold and her family were well-prepared for it. In a TikTok video on her page @jennyreimold, she detailed how her family's weather-resistant home saved their lives.

"Hurricane Helene and three home features that prevented more damage," Reimold says as she begins her video, walking people through her house and the destruction that the hurricane left outside. "The big lifesaver is the hydrostatic vents that allow water to pass in and out to equalize the pressure. This saves the structure. Electrical outlets are all raised to avoid contact with water. This is the beginning of a category four storm surge." In the video, Reimold shows people the scenario outside an hour before the hurricane made its landfall. Her home had high-impact hurricane windows to prevent water, wind and debris from entering their home.

Yet, Reimold and her family could not move heavy outdoor furniture and gym equipment to safety because they were prioritizing the safety of their family members and pets first. "We have horses, elderly parents and vehicles. The flood zone V E. Insurance doesn't cover a lot, so most of this is a total loss. Our first floor is gone, but it's just stuff. We are the lucky ones. So many people lost so much more. We are so grateful for those who stopped by to help and encourage everyone to help another family. Our sentimental things, my family, my sister's family, my parent's family, our horses and our animals are all safe," she said in the video's voiceover as her family dealt with the aftermath of the hurricane. Reimold spoke to Newsweek, giving additional details about how their house design ensured their safety through the violent weather conditions.

"Our home's foundation is constructed with concrete blocks for reinforcement, with additional concrete poured into the cells to enhance its overall strength. A concrete block foundation provides a strong, stable base that helps a structure resist the lateral forces of hurricane winds and storm surges," she told the outlet. Reimold ensured they had backup power, enough food and emergency supplies before the hurricane hit. "A section of the pier crashed through our back fence, breaking the tiles and leaving dead fish and small turtles scattered around the patio. The first floor took on extensive water damage, causing us to lose a playroom, our home gym, the mudroom, the staging materials for my design business, and all of our recreational equipment," she added.

People in Reimold's comment section appreciated her idea of designing the weather-proof house and took notes. @thelonelybaker shared, "Have lived through two hurricanes, the emotional toll is incomprehensible. Saving furniture is a luxury when the safety of people and animals is in play. Good on you for building this home!" @trisevgeni3 commented, "Sending you strength as I experienced this with Sandy in 2012. You are safe and that’s what matters!" @millstep1056 added, "This is devastating. You definitely made out better than others but it still has to be heartbreaking. Wishing all of you the best."

You can follow Jenny Reimold (@jennyreimold) on TikTok for more videos on lifestyle.