In 2012 we lost our entire office due to flooding following hurricane Sandy. {To read more about our loss, check out this featured article in Rough Notes Magazine} As a result, we take hurricane season, which lasts from June 1st through November 30th, much more seriously.
Below is some helpful information for you and your clients to keep in mind for before and during a storm…
- The 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season Predictions are calling for average activity which will be approximately 10 to 16 tropical storms, of which 4-8 will become hurricanes and up to 4 of which will develop into category 3 (111- 129 mph winds) or higher hurricanes. While this is considered average, some of the worst storms to hit the US have come in below average years. Being prepared means being prepared always. Click here to learn more about storm severity by category.
- Listen to NOAA when a storm is predicted. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration monitors changes in climate and weather. NOAA predicts and monitors storms with continuous weather updates 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Make sure you know how to tune into your local station NOAA affiliate. Listening and adhering to warnings in a timely manner is one of the best decisions you can make.
- Flooding is one of the major causes of casualties. FEMA offers a Flood Map Service Center. This will let you know what type of flood plain you are in. You can also check you community or home’s elevation here: http://veloroutes.org/elevation/. This can be valuable information when predicting the impact of flooding from storms. It is also important to know evacuation routes for your area!
- Make sure your disaster kit is ready to go. Two helpful websites for building your own disaster kits are:
- Apartment buildings and Community Associations should have disaster plans as well. Emergency help following a severe storm could be days away. Managing residents and their needs will likely fall to property managers.
Check out the great Insurance Programs for Condominium Insurance, Cooperative Insurance, Apartment Insurance and Property Manager’s Insurance that New Empire Group, Ltd. offers! And keep up to date with what’s going on at New Empire Group, LTD. by visiting our social media sites – Facebook, LinkedIn &Twitter!
