Get Ready for Hurricane Season 2025: Tips to Prepare for Storms and Protect Your Home 

As we approach the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, it’s time for all Texans to start preparing for what may be an above-normal year. Phil Klotzbach, senior research scientist at Colorado State University, has predicted the 2025 hurricane season will see increased activity, meaning Texans should be especially diligent in ensuring their homes, families, and finances are prepared for potential storms. 

Here’s how you can get ready, both in terms of safety and insurance protection: 

1. Review Your Insurance Policies

Make sure your insurance policies provide enough coverage for your home, personal property, and any other valuable assets. Regularly checking your homeowners or renters insurance policy is critical, especially as hurricane season approaches. Confirm that your coverage includes wind and hail damage, two common types of damage caused by hurricanes.

2. Don’t Wait to Buy Flood Insurance

Flood damage can be one of the most devastating impacts of a hurricane, but many homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover flooding. It's vital to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). One important note: There’s a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy becomes active, so don’t wait until a storm is in the forecast to buy it.

3. Understand Your Deductibles

Hurricane and windstorm deductibles are often higher than your standard homeowners policy deductible, and they may vary by policy and region. Make sure you understand your deductibles and evaluate whether you can afford them in the event of a claim. If necessary, consider adjusting your coverage to better suit your financial situation.
 

4. Create a Home Inventory

A home inventory is essential for documenting your personal belongings, making the claims process easier after a disaster. Take photos or videos of your possessions and keep a list with their estimated value. Store this inventory in a safe location, preferably in a cloud-based system or external hard drive that can be accessed even if your home is affected by the storm.

5. Secure Your Home

In addition to insurance protection, ensure your home is physically ready for hurricane conditions: 

• Install storm shutters or plywood over windows to prevent them from shattering. 

• Trim trees to reduce the risk of falling branches. 

• Check your roof for loose shingles or leaks that could be made worse during a storm.

6. Prepare Your Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit ready to go is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your family safe during a hurricane. Make sure your kit includes: 

• Water, non-perishable food, and medicine for at least 72 hours 

• Flashlights and extra batteries 

• First aid supplies 

• Important documents (e.g., identification, insurance policies) in a waterproof container 

• Power banks for charging phones

7. Plan for Evacuation

Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place. Talk to your family members about where to meet if you get separated, and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of evacuation orders. Have a “go-bag” prepared with essentials like clothes, toiletries, and any necessary medications.

8. Stay Informed

Stay up to date with weather alerts by signing up for notifications through local news outlets or apps. The earlier you can act on information, the more prepared you will be. Keep a battery-powered radio on hand in case power goes out.

9. Reinforce Your Financial Planning

Having an emergency fund set aside can help you cover expenses that might arise before insurance kicks in. This can be especially important if your deductible is high or if there are repairs that need to be made quickly.

10. Be Aware of Scams

Unfortunately, after major storms, scam artists often take advantage of people in distress. Always verify contractors and insurance claims adjusters before signing any documents or handing over money. It's a good idea to only work with companies you know or ones recommended by trusted sources. 

The Insurance Council of Texas is committed to helping you navigate hurricane season with the right preparation and resources. By following these tips, you can help protect your home, your belongings, and your financial well-being in the face of a hurricane. Remember: It’s never too early to start preparing. The 2025 hurricane season may be active, so start reviewing your insurance policies, securing your property, and making a plan today!