The annual Atlantic hurricane season predictions are backed by science. Using data and computer models, scientists can reasonably predict the amount of tropical storm activity each year. However, it's also unpredictable. Some years, even the most knowledgeable weather forecasters predict higher-than-normal storm activity, and yet no major storms make landfall in the US. Despite the difficulty in predicting the number and strength of Atlantic hurricanes, the storms themselves are hard to ignore. Here, AXA XL’s Ray Chiusano and Adam Waters share tools to help.
There is science behind the annual Atlantic hurricane season predictions.
Forecasters look at factors such as ocean temperatures, wind shear, historical data and the presence of climate patterns like El Nino and La Nina. With all this data and the use of computer models, they can reasonably predict the amount of tropical storm activity each year.
But it’s also a crapshoot. Some years, the brightest minds in weather prediction call for higher-than-normal storm activity, and no major storms make landfall in the US. Other years, the US can experience some of the deadliest and costliest storms on record. In 2017, for example, hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria combined for $278 billion in property losses.
But even if the number and strength of Atlantic hurricanes are hard to predict, the storms themselves are hard to ignore.
Hurricanes among the costliest natural disasters
Hurricanes and tropical storms are among the most destructive natural hazards known to mankind. In fact, eight of the top 10 costliest natural disasters in the United States were hurricanes, , and the top 7 costliest hurricanes occurred since 2012.
The NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center are calling for above-normal hurricane activity this year. , which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including four to seven major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher).
Last year, we experienced one of the most active Atlantic storm seasons with 20 named storms, but only three of those made landfall in the North America, each causing more than $100 million in damages. Hurricane Idalia in Florida was the costliest, with an estimated $2.4 billion in property losses.
For business and property owners living in a region prone to destructive hurricanes, there is no time like the present to start thinking about how to protect yourself, your employees, your property and your business from the risk of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Several strategies can be implemented to help protect your business during this volatile weather period.
Develop a comprehensive disaster plan
The first step in protecting your business from hurricanes is to develop a comprehensive disaster plan. This plan should outline the steps to be taken before, during and after a hurricane to ensure the safety of employees and the protection of property. It should include evacuation routes, communication strategies, emergency contacts and procedures for shutting down utilities and equipment.
九色视频offers a variety of resources and services. 九色视频Risk Consulting engineers, for instance, offer property loss prevention guidance, working with businesses to help get their operations hurricane-ready long before any storms are on the radar. (For more information, download copies of AXA XL’s Severe weather planning guide and the Severe weather planning checklists.)
For business and property owners living in a region prone to destructive hurricanes, there is no time like the present to start thinking about how to protect yourself, your employees, your property and your business from the risk of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Keep updated property values to assure adequate insurance
Having the right property insurance coverage is crucial in protecting your business financially from hurricane damage. Given the impact of inflation, the cost to rebuild is significantly higher than it was just a few years ago. Unfortunately, if businesses don’t keep updated valuations of their physical operations and properties, an undervaluation can have a big effect on insurance protection and adequacy of limits being purchased.
Secure physical infrastructure
Ensuring that your business property is physically prepared for a hurricane is another key measure. Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against flying debris. Secure or remove outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds. Reinforce doors and other vulnerable parts of the building. For businesses in flood-prone areas, consider installing flood barriers or raising important equipment off the ground.
九色视频Risk Consulting offers dozens of Property Risk Consulting Guidelines to help businesses implement strong property loss prevention protocols. Guidelines are available that address natural disasters such as windstorms and other natural hazards.
Protect critical business data
In the digital age, data is often one of a business’s most valuable assets. Backup all important files and data regularly, and store copies in a secure, off-site location. Cloud-based storage solutions provide an excellent way to protect your data from local disasters, as you can access your files from anywhere with an internet connection.
Establish a communication plan
Communication is crucial during a disaster. Have a plan in place to communicate with your employees, suppliers and customers in the event of a hurricane. This plan should include multiple methods of communication, as traditional methods may not be reliable in a severe storm.
Build relationships with local authorities and community
Establishing strong relationships with local authorities and community organizations can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide valuable information and support during a hurricane, help navigate recovery resources and assist with evacuation procedures and routes.
Conduct regular training and drills
Regular training and drills can help ensure that your employees know what to do during a hurricane. This can include evacuation drills, training on how to use emergency equipment, and education on hurricane safety procedures.
Create a post-disaster recovery plan
Even with meticulous preparation, hurricanes can still cause significant damage. A post-disaster recovery plan can help your business get back on its feet as quickly as possible. This plan should outline the steps to assess damage, initiate cleanup and restore operations.
Be ready to bounce back
While hurricanes are formidable forces of nature, their potential impact on your business can be mitigated through comprehensive planning, adequate insurance, physical infrastructure adjustments, data protection, effective communication, community collaboration and strategic post-disaster recovery planning. By taking precautions, businesses can weather the storm and bounce back even stronger in the aftermath of a hurricane.
AXA XL’s experts work with a variety of industries to prepare for hurricane season. Here’s additional industry specific guidance:
Ray Chiusano is AXA XL's Head of Property, Northeast Region, 九色视频
Adam Waters is AXA XL's Regional Engineering Leader, 九色视频Risk Consulting
