With our office’s recent closure for Hurricane Sally, it had us thinking of the different ways a Hurricane can affect local areas. There are a lot of factors that come into play when it comes to staying opened or closing when a storm heads your way. We have made a list of questions that can help you determine the best course of action.
What is a tropical storm?
A tropical storm is a more localized, intense low-pressure wind system. They form over tropical oceans and with winds of that may be equal to or less hurricane force.
What is a hurricane?
A cyclone that is either 74 miles per hour or greater. This type of storm brings severe rain, wind, thunder, and lightning. Hurricanes start out as a tropical storm and get stronger.
What is the difference?
Tropical storms are not as strong as a named storm. Since a tropical storm is usually below 74 miles per hour, it may get weaker as one hits. While they both will provide heavy rains, big wind and harsh conditions, hurricanes can do major damage. When a hurricane is upgraded in its category number (categories 1 through 5), this means the winds, rain, and impact will be ever stronger.
Where is your business or home located?
Where your business or residences is grounded can give you a better picture of if you should be closing or embracing a storm’s impact. Some residences may evacuate if a strong named storm is heading their way.
Are you inland or on the coast?
Storms usually impact the coasts more as the storm system can become stronger in the sea and make landfall on the coast. We had to close our offices because Hurricane Sally came in through the gulf coast, exactly where our business is located. Many other businesses followed suit with closing as well.
Am I in a flood zone?
The short answer is yes. Every property in Florida is in a flood zone. Some zones are just more “preferred” than others. You can learn more in our Flood Zones Blog Post.
How do these storms affect the area?
Tropical storms and hurricanes do damage that not only affect local business, but residential, industry, and transportation too. People may lose electrical power. Businesses may do so as well, causing closures. Main roadways may flood, and some local passages can be severely flooded. Power lines may snap and fall. Trees may also fall as well. It is always best to stay prepared in case anything like this happens to your area.
How can I stay safe?
As storms are approaching, check your local television and radio weather announcements. If you have a smartphone and live in a hurricane-prone area, it will notify you on the status of incoming storms as well. Check out our hurricane handbook here for an additional resource to use if a named storm comes your way.
We are here to protect and provide assistance during this time. If you are unsure about your current homeowners, business and flood policies, give us a call at 850.244.2111 or email at service@harrisinsurance.com.
Stay safe out there!
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
