As summer comes to an end, we are officially entering the peak months of hurricane season. Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th and can be a devastating time of tragedy and loss if you do not adequately prepare.
You may be thinking, “Well, I haven’t been impacted by a major hurricane yet this year.” However, it is common for hurricane season to start off slow and pick up towards the last few months. The busiest month for hurricanes is September, which is when several major storms, such as Irma, Ivan, and Maria, occurred.
In fact, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration expects an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season, despite the slow start. An average hurricane season consists of 14 named storms, of which seven become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. As of early August, we have only seen three named storms, which is an alarming signal for what is in store. We can’t stop hurricanes from coming, but we can be prepared for when they do.
An average hurricane season consists of 14 named storms, of which seven become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.
How Much Does Hurricane Damage Cost?
A common question we receive at Deland Gibson is “how much damage can a hurricane really do and what does that cost?” This is a tricky question to answer as its depends on a number of factors including extent of damage, property value, repair costs, etc. But, what we can tell you is that the annual cost associated with damages from hurricanes is continuing to increase. According to NOAA “In 2021, there were 20 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters. The total cost for these events was $145 billion, making this the third most costly year on record, behind 2017 and 2005.” Damage from hurricanes is certainly a growing concern, and coupled with concerns around climate change and rising sea levels, this is an area where we believe consumers should make sure they are adequately protected.
“In 2021, there were 20 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters. The total cost for these events was $145 billion, making this the third most costly year on record, behind 2017 and 2005.”
How can I prepare for hurricane season?
1. Stay tuned
During hurricane season, keeping up with your local weather forecast is crucial. Hurricane watches and warnings are typically announced 48-36 hours before the storm. You can get weather updates on TV, radio, or online.
2. Create a hurricane kit
Instead of scrambling to gather supplies once you get a hurricane warning alert, it is best to have a hurricane kit prepared. A hurricane kit is a large, easily portable duffle bag filled with emergency supplies you can grab and go, if necessary, upon hearing the news of a hurricane approaching. Even if you intend to ride out the storm from your house, it’s wise to have a hurricane kit prepared.
Your kit should include the following items, at a minimum:
- Drinking water
- Flashlights.
- Storm radios.
- Canned food that can be eaten from the tin.
- Manual can opener.
- Energy bars.
- Crackers.
- Prescription medications.
- Cash (ideally several hundred dollars).
- Paper towels.
- Wet wipes.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Clothing (two changes of clothing per person).
- Batteries.
- Toiletries.
- Diapers for babies.
3. Make a plan
In the case of a hurricane, it is essential to have a family game plan. You will likely have short notice before the storm, so you must have a plan of action in place. You should be ready to evacuate or stay at home depending on what authorities suggest and where you live.
If you must evacuate:
· Map out an evacuation route based on your city’s emergency plan – plan several different routes in case of street closings.
· Make sure your hurricane kit is prepared and easily accessible.
If you must stay at home:
· Stay inside and in a room with no windows, skylights, or glass doors.
· Listen to a storm radio for updates on the hurricane.
· Keep your hurricane kit close by.
4. Protect your property
Actions that you should take to get your property ready for a storm include:
· Clear your yard to ensure that there is nothing that could blow around during the storm and remove any damaged trees.
· Seal windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood.
· Make sure your roof is in good condition.
· Store your valuable items and documents in a safe.
· Regularly check your home’s foundation, basement walls, and floors to prevent floodwaters from getting in.
5. Review your insurance coverage
Is There Insurance For Hurricanes?
Technically, no, there is not hurricane insurance. In order to make sure that you are adequately covered you should review your insurance policy. Homeowners insurance can cover damage caused by hurricane winds, but you will need a separate policy to cover flood damage. Now is the time to prepare for a hurricane if you aren’t already. Contact a Deland, Gibson agent today to make sure you have adequate insurance coverage for hurricane season.
How Does Homeowners Insurance Work For Hurricanes?
Again, while there are not specific hurricane insurance policies, you can protect your home and assets by making sure that you have adequate coverage to protect against hurricane winds and flood damage.
Providing Peace of Mind Through Proactive Service
Deland, Gibson: A Trusted Choice, Five Star Accredited independent insurance agency. Established in Massachusetts in 1900, Deland, Gibson is a 4th generation family-run insurance agency that has thrived working as a trusted advisor for its client base. We work with individuals and businesses to lower their Total Cost of Risk. We analyze a client’s direct and indirect costs and implement risk reduction plans to address areas of business, hazard, or strategic risk.
