Hurricane Season 2025: Are You Prepared?
Hurricane Season 2025: Are You Prepared?
Hurricane season is almost upon us once again. Beginning June 1 and lasting through November 30, the 2025 season is forecasted to be above average. According to forecasters, including those at Colorado State University, we can expect four major hurricanes that could reach Category 3 strength or higher. Because we live in a coastal area, these predictions are especially concerning. Hurricane Helene reminded us just last year that storms can be unpredictable and that significant impacts can happen anywhere. With that in mind, we strongly encourage you to start preparing now, even as we hope and pray for an uneventful season.
Learn more from Colorado State University’s seasonal forecast.
Steps to Prepare Your Insurance for Hurricane Season
1. Review Your Insurance Policies
Call your insurance agent to go over both your homeowners and auto insurance policies. Make sure they are up-to-date and have adequate coverage for hurricane-related damages. Additionally, be sure to understand your deductibles and any exclusions that may apply.
2. Consider Flood Insurance
Standard homeowners policies typically do not cover flood damage. Given that South Carolina is surrounded by water, rivers, lakes, dams, and of course, the Atlantic, flooding is a very real risk. Keep in mind, there’s usually a 30-day waiting period before new policies take effect, so it’s best to act early.
3. Document Your Property
Another essential step is to take photos or videos of your home’s interior and exterior, including any valuable items. This documentation can make the claims process much smoother if your property is damaged in a storm.
4. Secure Important Documents
Safeguard essential paperwork. Store insurance policies, birth certificates, and other critical documents in a waterproof container or back them up digitally using secure cloud storage.
General Hurricane Preparedness Tips
Know Your Evacuation Zone
First and foremost, familiarize yourself with Charleston’s evacuation zones and routes. This knowledge is crucial if an evacuation order is issued.
(Source: SC Department of Insurance)
Prepare an Emergency Kit
In addition, assemble an emergency kit. It should include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies to last at least 72 hours.
Develop a Communication Plan
It’s also important to have a communication plan in place. Decide on a method to stay in touch with family members and choose a designated meeting place and emergency contacts.
(Source: Charleston Daily)
Protect Your Property
Take preventative action by installing storm shutters or boarding up windows, securing outdoor items, and trimming trees. These simple steps can help reduce potential storm damage.
(Source: Charleston Daily)
Stay Informed
To stay safe, stay informed. Monitor the latest weather updates and follow emergency instructions from trusted sources such as the National Weather Service Charleston Office and Charleston County Emergency Management. These resources will provide timely and accurate information throughout the season.
We’re Here to Help
At Schirmer Insurance Group, we understand the unique challenges hurricanes present to our coastal community. Our team is here to support you every step of the way from preparing in advance to recovering after the storm. Contact us today to review your insurance coverage and make sure you’re ready for whatever this hurricane season may bring.