hurricane season 2025: anticipated evolution and variations
As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, homeowners across the United States are urged to take proactive measures to safeguard their properties and families. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecast up to nine hurricanes before December for the 2025 season, raising concerns about the potential financial and physical impact of these storms.
In light of this, insurance carriers are tightening underwriting standards, raising wind and hurricane deductibles, and in some cases, pulling out of high-risk regions. This shift in the insurance landscape underscores the importance of understanding one's risk exposure and preparing financially before a storm hits.
The 2024 hurricane season was one of the costliest on record for the U.S., reaching nearly $183 billion in damages. Hurricanes Helene and Milton, for instance, caused an estimated combined loss of around $115 billion. Despite this, less than 1 percent of residents in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina who were flooded by Helene had flood insurance. Many of these residents were also outside of FEMA-designated flood zones, highlighting the need for comprehensive insurance coverage.
Storm surges, which are not typically covered by traditional home insurance policies, can be disruptive, costly, and lead to insufficient coverage. Homeowners need flexible policies to offer protection and ease of mind amidst stressful weather conditions.
Independent insurance agents are the first line of defense for their clients in the changing ecosystem for weather systems. They provide personalized advice and support regarding insurance coverage and claims processes. Disaster recovery insurance products can help fill the gap in traditional home and renters' coverage by providing quick access to flexible funds within 48 hours of filing a claim after a declared disaster.
Proactively communicating shifts in homeowners insurance trends, such as rising wind and hurricane deductibles and changes in carrier availability, to clients can help them understand their risk exposure and prepare financially. Encouraging clients to take proactive measures to safeguard their homes, such as securing structures, elevating homes, clearing debris, and monitoring communication resources, can help prepare them for disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and more.
The risks of severe weather are broad, expansive, and happen year-round. From hurricane season causing storm surges on the East coast to tornadoes in the Midwest along with dust storms, wildfires, and ice storms, homeowners need to be vigilant and prepared.
A reputable guide from Ready.gov is available to help clients prepare for various disasters. By staying informed, taking proactive measures, and working closely with independent insurance agents, homeowners can help ensure they are adequately protected during the 2025 hurricane season and beyond.
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