Even More Hurricanes Expected

As we get closer to peak hurricane season the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that it is increasing their Atlantic hurricane season outlook.

The new outlook increases the number of named storms by over 15%, with 15-21 as the expected total of named storms this season. The NOAA also stands by their earlier modeling that at least 50% of the named storms will be in the Category 3-5 hurricane range. Overall, for those keeping score at home, NOAA is giving a 65% probability of having an above-average season.

What does that mean if you, your friends, or your family own property in a state that is typically in a hurricane’s path? Here is a list of things to do as we approach the most active part of hurricane season:

1. Check your insurance policy to make sure you have adequate coverage. IF YOU DO MAKE CHANGES IN YOUR COVERAGE ASK YOUR AGENT IF THERE IS A TIME DELAY BEFORE THE NEW COVERAGE TAKES EFFECT. Often there is a 30 DAY delay before the new coverage commences, meaning if you change your coverage in mid-August and a hurricane hits before mid-September, your old coverage will apply. It’s imperative to do annual reviews of your policy; many insurers change policy language in the aftermath of a serious storm event in a particular area. You won’t know what you have unless you review it with a professional. An hour of your time today can save a lot of money and aggravation later.
2. Do you have a basic contents list for your property? When was the last time you photographed any improvements made to your home? Both interior and exterior photos can provide necessary documentation in the event of a catastrophic loss. Take the photos now and save them in a safe place. If using your cell phone, back the photos up to the cloud so they are readily available should you need them post-catastrophe.
3. Do you have a readily available list of emergency phone numbers and a plan in place for letting family members know you’re safe in the event of an emergency? If not, make one now and distribute it to your loved ones.

Have you downloaded Emergency, the free app from the American Red Cross? We first wrote about this a few weeks ago, but it bears repeating. Monitor real-time conditions in your area or any area you choose; alert those around you; prepare your home and property; check to see if loved ones are safe and let them know you’re safe. A crucial app for protecting you and your loved ones, keeping track of conditions, and knowing what to do when disaster strikes. You can read more about it here: https://professionallossadjusters.com/2021/07/30/emergency-theres-an-app-for-that/

You can also get the app in the App Store or at Google Play. Learn more at:

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html

We wish you a safe hurricane season. Add our number to your contact list now, so that if you do find yourself in a hurricane’s path, a simple call to us will get you the help you need with your insurance claim.