Every year, like a child waiting for Christmas, adjusters eagerly wait to see what Colorado State has to say about the upcoming hurricane season. We pour over pages of graphs, modeling infographics, and radar images, just waiting to see what is in store for the coming season, and whether or not we need a new suitcase ahead of what we affectionately call “CAT duty” (Just to clarify, there are no felines involved, just CATastrophes). Let’s just say that Santa came with a very full sack of weather this year. Experts state this season has the highest number of storms predicted ever in the 41-year history of this report, with the anticipation that storm season will start well in advance of the normal June kickoff. Buckle up if you are on the East Coast …all signs indicate it is going to be a bumpy ride!
Storm Season Predictions
So, what exactly do our meteorology friends from the Department of Atmospheric Science predict is heading our way this year? A staggeringly anticipated 23 Named Storms, 11 Hurricanes over a likely 45-day shelf life with 5 becoming Major Hurricanes, and a 62% chance of the entire continental coastline having landfall. This percentage is up from a historical 43% average – great odds for Vegas, but not so much for our Eastern seaboard in 2024.
What is driving the increased forecast this year? Ocean temperatures are far higher than normal for this time of year, as a result of “El Nino” conditions. There is a solid chance that we will also experience “La Nina” conditions from June to August (55%) and even more so September to November (77%). This means that our oceans are experiencing unprecedented heat, which in turn causes the impact of hurricanes to intensify and become more dangerous, because warm ocean water is basically fuel for a hurricane. This can also lead to a higher volume of water vapor – which means that even if you are inland, you’re likely going to need that umbrella because it is going to get rainy.
How To Prepare
What should you do to prepare now for the early season coming our way? This is the time to review your policies for any coastal area properties you may have to ensure that you are adequately covered, especially for wind and flooding. Keep in mind that standard waiting times to purchase flood though the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is 30 days (unless required by a lender) and 10 days through some Private Flood insurers. In addition, take time to understand your insurance program construct, including limits and deductibles that will apply.
If you have windows or doors with weather stripping in need of repair, it is time to make those upgrades to prevent wind-blown rain from entering your building or home. Further, this is a great time to think about preparing a storm kit and talking to your family (especially younger children) about what to do if and when a storm blows in.
Luckily, pertinent information and resources for all of these topics and more will be available on the Sentinel Storm Center, which is launching soon for 2024. Sentinel is here to help you weather every storm, and are proud to be your beacon, always Safeguarding your Success! Contact a member of our team today to learn more.
