Alex, which became the first Atlantic hurricane to form in January since 1938, obviously didn’t know that hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th. However, for those living or working in the Atlantic hurricane region, the first day of hurricane season rarely passes unnoticed.

At Setnor Byer Insurance & Risk, we understand that preparing for hurricane season is rarely easy and often stressful. We also understand that a lack of awareness and preparation can lead to disaster. Taking preventative measures before a hurricane is the most effective way to limit the damage. Start your preparations now by using our 2016 Hurricane Season checklist.

According to researchers at Colorado State University’s Tropical Meteorology Project, the 2016 Atlantic hurricane season will have approximately average activity and a near-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the United States coastline and in the Caribbean. During the 2016 Atlantic hurricane season, the Tropical Meteorology Project predicts:

  • 12 Named Storms (winds of 39 mph or higher)
  • 5 Hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher)
  • 2 Major Hurricanes (Category 3 – 5 storms with winds of 111 mph or higher)

The probability that a major hurricane (Category 3 – 5) will make landfall somewhere on:

  • The entire U.S. coastline is 50% (the average for last century is 52%);
  • The U.S. East Coast, including the Florida peninsula, is 30% (the average for last century is 31%); and
  • The Gulf Coast, from the Florida Panhandle westward to Brownsville, Texas, is 29% (the average for last century is 30%).

Despite their predictions for an average 2016 hurricane season, researchers at the Tropical Meteorology Project remind us that coastal residents should prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much activity is predicted.

Since it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for you, here are a few tips that can help your home and business weather a storm.

Before the Storm

  • Monitor the news to allow time to prepare.
  • Identify all tools and equipment that will be needed to secure property before a storm and limit the damage after the storm (flashlights, batteries, caulking, tarpaulins, sandbags, cutting and fastening equipment, etc.).
  • Clear drains and downspouts to minimize the risk of flooding.
  • Move items inside.
  • Unplug electrical equipment and move property away from windows.
  • Check and secure all documents and records.
  • Take or update photographs of real and personal property.
  • Gather insurance policies and agent/insurer contact information.

After the Storm

  • Only after it has been declared safe to do so, take reasonably necessary steps to protect against any further property damage.
  • Report fallen power lines to power company immediately—stay away from them!
  • Check exterior walls and roof for damage from wind, rain, flying objects or rising waters.
  • Check all interior perimeter walls, floors and roof for leaks and water damage.
  • Document all damage with photographs and video.
  • Prepare detailed damage reports.
  • Call your insurance company or agent as soon as possible to report damage.

While preparing for hurricane season is never easy, our team of experienced and responsive professionals can help ensure that your personal and business property is protected in the event of a hurricane. With over 30 years of experience dealing with tropical storms and hurricanes, Setnor Byer Insurance & Risk has a long history of helping clients prepare before the storm and, more importantly, being there through the process of rebuilding after the storm.

Please contact us if you would like more information about protecting your personal and business property during the 2016 Hurricane Season.

You can receive regular updates about developments that may affect your home or business by subscribing to Setnor Byer Insurance & Risk’s weekly risk management news brief.

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