Hurricane Season 2021 and How to Prepare

During unprecedented times the best thing to do is to prepare. As many of us know hurricane season 2020 is expected to have higher than normal level of activity. Beginning on early June up until November 30, we all should start preparing in case the undesired happens.

With a great deal of moisture, light wind and sea surface temperature hitting 80 degrees this season, we can all expect high chance of tropical development.

According to NOAA’s (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) prediction, during this season we can expect two to six tropical cyclones including tropical depressions, named storms and hurricanes.

The CSU’s 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season forecast includes 16 named storms, 8 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes (category 3-5). Hurricane season at the same time as a worldwide pandemic makes things a lot more complicated, therefore it is imperative you start your hurricane preparations early.

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Safety Tips:

1- Determine your Risk: Find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone.

2- Review you Insurance Policy: Check your insurance policy and learn what coverage is included for hurricane damage. Note the difference between flood coverage and water damage as both of these perils are stated separately.

3- Important Documents: check if your ids are up to date and make copies. Save them digitally or put them inside a waterproof bag.

4- Purchase Backup Chargers: place your electronic devices save from water and purchase backup charger devices to power.

5- Download FEMA App: you will receive important notifications and alerts for your area.

6- Plan an Evacuation Route: start planning where and when to leave your home in case you live in an evacuation area. You should plan to stay at a safe shelter for about 10 days after disaster. Keep in mind many gas stations and roads may be closed.

7- Plan for Your Pets: determine if you will take your pets with or leave them with a family member or day care.

8- Make House Arrangements: place outside furniture inside your home, place hurricane shutters in your windows and declutter drains and gutters. Trim trees, remove dead limbs, securely attach decks or sheds and use hurricane straps for roof.  

9- Disability: if any of your family members is with disability, try to make a plan that is suitable for them and take into account additional considerations.

10- Check with Family and Friends: If you have family or friends that are of age, try to help them with their preparations.

There are three basic things you should be prepared for: closed roads, closed gas stations and grocery shops, power outages and communication failures. Preparing a safety kit can also help reduce stress and anxiety.

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In case a disaster arrives it is very important to stay well informed throughout. Listen to local officials and be ready to act upon instructions. You can always buy a small radio for any weather updates.

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Safety Kit:

1- Store a gallon of water (per person) for both drinking and sanitation.

2- Buy a ten day supply of both non perishable foods and medications.

3- Have the necessary supplies for each family member (infants, seniors, persons with disabilities and pets).

4- Buy antibiotic ointment and hygienic products.

5- CDC (the Centers for Disease Control) recommends having additional items to prevent the spread of viruses and flu like cloth face coverings, soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.

6- Protect important documents like insurance policy, property and financial records, and medical information. Put these documents to safety.

7- Try to have dry matches, a flashlight and candles with you. ‍‍

Home Inventory

It is also recommended to make a home inventory. Try to take pictures and videos of your home before the hurricane. Try to document every room and area of your house. Keep record of past receipts of your appliances. This way you can use evidence for an insurance claim and have a higher chance to secure a favorable settlement.

After a disaster like a hurricane, your property may experience large scale damages. This is when insurance comes in handy. Nonetheless introducing an insurance claim for hurricane damage can be very complicated and time consuming. Many insurance companies try to underpay claims. It is only with the assistance of a Public Adjuster when insurance companies agree to a fair settlement.

In case you are having trouble managing your claim, do not hesitate to contact us to receive proper guidance and get the settlement you actually deserve.