Winter Storm Resource Center

Winter weather can affect businesses in many parts of the country, including regions that don’t usually experience harsh conditions, like some southern states. Ice and snow can happen unexpectedly, sometimes causing disruptions and financial challenges.

Since many areas are less accustomed to severe cold, buildings may be more vulnerable to damage and higher losses. It’s helpful for all regions to review their typical weather patterns and identify areas with higher risk exposure.

These storms affect communities nationwide. The FEMA National Risk Index indicates that winter weather risks aren’t limited to the north—they’re present in many parts of the U.S., with varying levels of frequency and impact.

Over time, more minor disasters are contributing to rising costs. While major catastrophes often make headlines, most of the increase in losses comes from smaller events like winter storms, hail, and severe thunderstorms.
Source: Munich Re

Many small businesses are vulnerable to these shocks. Data from the Small Business Credit Survey shows that more than 1 in 10 small businesses experience losses each year because of natural disasters.

Winter weather can cause businesses to close permanently. About 25% of businesses fail to reopen after sustaining major damage from disasters like winter storms. 

For more resources and safety tips, visit Ready.gov to learn how to prepare for winter weather.

When a winter storm is coming, planning ahead can help minimize disruptions and keep your employees and assets safe.

• Protect your property. Insulate pipes, check roofs, and service heating systems to help prevent damage before a storm arrives.
• Create a business continuity plan. Include details on how your company will resume operations once it’s safe. Outline remote work procedures and backup power options if you plan to bring employees back to the office.
• Employee communication. Set up a clear emergency contact plan for your team and ensure everyone knows who to contact during an emergency. Share emergency information before a storm or disaster, and let employees know where to find it.
• Review insurance coverage. Check your protections, including coverage for property damage, business interruption, and employee safety.

Making sure your home and vehicle are ready for winter weather helps keep you safe and prepared. Here are some simple steps:

• Check that your sensors, sump pumps, and automatic shutoff valves are working properly to help prevent damage from broken pipes and water leaks.
• When you're on the road, pack your car with essentials like a portable charger, shovel, windshield scraper, flashlight, booster cables, road flares or reflective signs, water, blankets, and a first-aid kit. These items can make a big difference if you get stranded.
• Learn more about how to prepare for cold and stormy weather by visiting our blog.

Getting your home ready for winter can help prevent problems down the line. Here are some steps you can take:

• Use simple tools to help reduce the risk of water damage, which is the most common insurance claim for homeowners.
• Check your electrical systems and outdoor maintenance to stay safe during colder months.
• Consider low-temperature monitoring to catch issues early and avoid costly repairs.

Brad Sawyer, our Risk Advisory leader, shares more tips and insights on these topics in our blog.