For homeowners in coastal and near-coastal communities, the difference between a prepared home and an unprepared one can be measured in tens of thousands of dollars, weeks of displacement, and years of insurance headaches.
Each year, Atlantic hurricane season stretches from June 1 through November 30; Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 through November 30. These seasons bring the potential for powerful winds, punishing rain, and catastrophic flooding. Among all billion-dollar weather disasters since 1980, tropical cyclones (or hurricanes) have caused the most damage: more than $1.5 trillion in total, with an average cost of $23 billion per event, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Hurricane season doesn’t have to be terrifying. A small investment of time now—building a plan, assembling emergency kits, hardening your home, and reviewing your insurance coverage—goes a long way toward keeping you safe and reducing potential losses. Prepare early, stay informed by trusted sources, and take deliberate steps to protect the people and property you care about.
Your home may be your haven, but during hurricane season it needs to be able to withstand extreme weather—like a fortress.
Strong winds could be a formidable adversary, exploiting weak points. That means small vulnerabilities could quickly become significant damage.
Start with these foundational fixes:
Inspect and reinforce your roof: Loose shingles are an easy target for high winds. Secure or replace them before storm season begins—asphalt shingles can dislodge in winds as low as 60 mph. Alternative roofing materials, such as metal, rubber, and composite, are more durable and designed to last longer.
Seal windows and doors: Install impact-resistant storm shutters or impact-rated glass to protect against flying debris.
Strengthen garage doors: Garage doors are one of the most common failure points in hurricanes. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends purchasing a reinforced garage door or installing bracing kits to help keep water out of your home. An impact-rated garage door is designed to withstand flying debris and to keep wind and water out.
Clear gutters and drains: Proper drainage helps prevent water buildup and roof leaks.
A little maintenance now could mean a lot less mayhem later.
Your patio can quickly become a projectile playground when winds pick up. Windborne debris can travel several hundred feet, break through your home's outer walls or windows, and let rain into your home. That also allows internal wind pressure to build, which can lift the roof and push out walls, increasing the risk of collapse.
Perform a pre-storm sweep of outdoor items. Secure or store things like outdoor furniture, grills, planters, decor, loose fence panels, and equipment. Trim trees near the home and roofline; remove dead branches; and anchor sheds, fences, and play equipment.
When the power is out and roads are unsafe to travel, what you have on hand matters.
The American Red Cross recommends preparing an emergency kit with at least three days’ worth of supplies. Remember, once a storm is in the forecast, the window to stock up closes quickly.
Consider stocking up on:
Additionally, store important documents in waterproof containers.
If evacuation orders are issued, hesitation can be hazardous. Early evacuation planning significantly reduces risk during hurricanes.
Have a plan for your household:
The wild wind of a hurricane may capture the headlines, but water is often the costliest culprit. According to FEMA, just one inch of floodwater could cause up to $25,000 in damage. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically don’t cover flood damage.
To stay afloat:
Hurricanes may be unpredictable, but your preparation doesn’t have to be.
With a proactive plan, a fortified home, and the right insurance strategy, you can face this hurricane season with confidence. From securing shingles to stocking supplies, every step you take today helps safeguard tomorrow. Want to know how your home’s construction, roof system, and coverage stack up against hurricane risk? Our experienced advisors can help evaluate your exposure and recommend options for reliable protection and peace of mind.
Request an insurance review with an experienced Personal Risk Advisor to ensure you're adequately insured for whatever life may bring.
Chief Meteorologist
Risk Advisory Leader
