Roof water damage - temporary solutions

If you notice a roof leak and are waiting for expert to repair, you can use some interim methods to reduce water damage. Here are some suggestions:

Temporary Solution: If the leak is modest and you can safely access the roof, consider making a temporary patch with a tarp, plastic sheeting, or roofing cement. Before doing any patching, make sure the area is totally dry.

Keep some emergency roofing tools: Some home improvement stores provide emergency roof repair kits that comprise supplies such as sealant and patches intended for temporary repairs.

Use Buckets: Place buckets or large containers beneath the leak to capture leaking water. Use towels, rags or a wet/dry vacuum to absorb excess water on the floor.

Debris Blockage: Remove any debris from the roof that could be causing the leak. Check gutters and downspouts for blockages and remove them as needed.

Rely on weather changes: Keep an eye on the weather forecast for potential rain or storms, and take extra measures if necessary.

Draining: If the leak is causing ceiling damage, place a bucket under it and poke a small hole in the ceiling to let the water drain.

Use a Waterleak Sealant: Temporarily cover tiny gaps or cracks with roofing sealant or caulk. If possible, apply the sealant to the leak's source from both inside and out.

Tarp Covering: Tarps are bigbger in size and flat pieces of fabric that can be used for a variety of applications.

Place a heavy-duty tarp over the damaged area and attach it with weights or bungee cords. This can give temporary protection while the necessary repairs are completed.

Ref: Quora