Preparing Your Generator for Storm Season in the Midwest
Updated February 2026 • 6 min read
Kansas City, Oklahoma, and the Midwest face unique storm threats. Here's how to make sure your generator is ready.
Midwest Storm Threats
- Tornado Season (March-June): High winds, debris, extended outages
- Ice Storms (December-February): Downed power lines, multi-day outages
- Summer Heat (June-August): Grid strain, rolling blackouts
- Severe Thunderstorms (Year-round): Lightning strikes, transformer damage
Pre-Season Checklist
2-3 Months Before Storm Season
- ☐ Schedule professional maintenance
- ☐ Test run under load (not just exercise mode)
- ☐ Check oil and coolant levels
- ☐ Inspect air filter
- ☐ Verify battery charge
- ☐ Test transfer switch operation
- ☐ Update monitoring app
Fuel Considerations
Natural Gas Users
Natural gas is generally reliable, but pressure can drop during widespread emergencies. Your generator should still operate at reduced capacity.
Propane Users
Check your tank level! A 500-gallon tank at 50% gives you roughly 5-7 days of continuous operation for a 22kW generator. Schedule a fill-up before storm season.
Physical Preparation
- Clear debris and vegetation within 5 feet
- Ensure exhaust is unobstructed
- Check that the enclosure is secure
- Verify drainage around the unit
- Trim overhanging branches
During a Storm Watch
- Manually test-start your generator
- Charge phones and devices
- Fill bathtubs with water (if you have a well pump)
- Know how to manually operate your transfer switch
- Have our emergency number saved: 816-461-9751
After the Storm
- Inspect for debris damage
- Check for water intrusion
- Monitor for unusual sounds or smells
- Let the generator cool before inspection
- Schedule post-storm service if it ran extended hours
Get Storm-Ready Now
Schedule your pre-season maintenance before the rush.