The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) is urging property owners in hurricane-prone areas to prepare for the upcoming 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, anticipated to be "above average." The season begins on June 1 and continues until November 30.
Phil Klotzbach, Ph.D., a senior research scientist at Colorado State University (CSU) and a non-resident scholar at Triple-I, leads the CSU TC RAMS research team. Their forecast predicts 17 named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes for this season. In comparison, a typical Atlantic hurricane season averages 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.
Triple-I CEO Sean Kevelighan highlighted the importance of preparedness during National Hurricane Preparedness Week. “During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, everyone who lives in a hurricane-prone community should take a few moments to ensure they have adequate financial protection for their property and possessions, while also taking steps to make their home or business more resilient to the impacts of wind and water," Kevelighan said.
Kevelighan also noted the increased risk for states along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. “History has proven states along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts face the prospect of catastrophic, hurricane-caused property damage. With more Americans living in harm’s way than ever before, it is critical for everyone residing in a hurricane-prone community to make preparedness a priority for the upcoming season," he added.
National Hurricane Preparedness Week, led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is set to occur from Sunday, May 4 to Saturday, May 10.
Triple-I suggests several preparedness steps for the 2025 hurricane season. One key recommendation is to review insurance coverage with an insurance professional, ensuring adequate property insurance to cover rebuilding costs and temporary living expenses, particularly due to rising construction costs and labor. Kevelighan emphasized the importance of flood insurance, noting, “Nearly 90% of U.S. natural disasters involve flooding so most areas of the country are prone to flooding.”
Homeowners are advised to read the declarations page of their insurance policy to understand coverage details, deductibles, and claims processes. Additionally, comprehensive auto insurance, which many drivers purchase, offers protection against non-collision damage such as flood and wind.
Inventorying possessions with an eye to replacement costs or actual cash value is important for ensuring full insurance coverage, as is creating a photo or video record for claims.
Finally, enhancing property resilience by investing in structural improvements and annual roof inspections is recommended to mitigate wind damage risks.
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