Before the Storm: Preparing for Hurricane Damage in Florida

Living in Florida comes with its perks—sunshine, palm trees, weekend beach trips—but it also comes with an annual reminder: hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and every year, we're reminded just how destructive these storms can be.

From Hurricane Irma (2017) to Hurricane Michael (2018) and Hurricane Ian (2022), Florida has seen firsthand how hurricanes can devastate entire communities. And while we can't stop storms from coming, we can take steps to prepare for them.


What Kind of Damage Do Hurricanes Cause?

A hurricane is far more than a windy day. These massive storms bring:

  • Sustained winds over 74 mph (and sometimes over 150 mph in major storms)

  • Flying debris that can shatter windows and tear through siding

  • Torrential rainfall, often measured in feet, not inches

  • Widespread flooding and life-threatening storm surges

In 2022, Hurricane Ian caused more than $112 billion in damages, making it the third costliest hurricane in U.S. history. Over 700,000 insurance claims were filed in Florida alone—most related to roof damage, water intrusion, fallen trees, and structural loss.

And hurricane damage isn’t just a coastal problem. Strong storms can tear across the entire state, causing:

  • Flash flooding in inland areas

  • Extended power outages

  • Road closures and limited access to emergency services

Is Your Insurance Hurricane-Ready?

Homeowners insurance generally covers wind damage—but that doesn't mean you're fully protected. There are two key parts of your policy you should double-check before hurricane season ramps up:

1. Your Hurricane Deductible

Most Florida policies include a separate deductible for hurricanes—usually 2% to 5% of your home's insured value. That’s not a flat amount.

Example: If your home is insured for $400,000 and your deductible is 5%, you’ll pay $20,000 out of pocket before your coverage starts.

Make sure you know what your deductible is and whether you can comfortably cover that amount in an emergency.

2. Your Flood Coverage

Flood damage isn’t covered by homeowners insurance. If water enters your home from the ground—whether from storm surge, flash flooding, or rising rainwater—you need a separate flood insurance policy to file a claim.

5 Smart Steps to Prepare Your Home

Getting hurricane-ready doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to start:

  1. Secure your property
     Install hurricane shutters or board up windows. Anchor patio furniture and grills. Reinforce your garage door to prevent structural failure.

  2. Trim trees and clear gutters
     Overhanging branches can break windows or tear through your roof. Clean gutters help prevent water backup and roof leaks.

  3. Back up your records
     Photograph your property, store important documents digitally, and keep copies of your insurance policies in a safe place.

  4. Build a hurricane kit
     Include:

    • Flashlights and extra batteries

    • Bottled water and non-perishable food (3+ day supply)

    • Medications and pet supplies

    • Portable chargers

    • First-aid kit

    • Hard copies of emergency contacts

  5. Know your evacuation zone
     Visit your county’s emergency management website and plan evacuation routes before a storm is in the forecast. Practice the route with your family if possible.

Hurricane Stats That Matter

  • Florida has been hit by more hurricanes than any other state (over 120 since 1851)

  • Hurricane Irma (2017) caused over $50 billion in damage

  • The average hurricane claim payout in Florida exceeds $30,000

  • Only about 15% of Florida homes have flood insurance despite growing flood risk

  • The strongest hurricane winds recorded in Florida exceeded 155 mph (Hurricane Michael, 2018)

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The key to hurricane preparedness isn’t fear, it’s readiness.

Start with your insurance. Review your hurricane deductible. Check if you have flood coverage. Make sure your roof and windows meet current building standards. Update your contact info with your agent.