Property Insurance
The Atlantic hurricane season was ushered in with flooding rains and tornadoes that brought significant damage to Central Florida (link to June blog one of two).
As Florida prepares for an above-average hurricane season, According to our experienced Florida insurance claims attorneys it is important to understand the terminology used by the National Weather Service to stay ahead of each storm’s activity and how you should respond.
The phases of tropical weather disturbances, including hurricanes, are reported in stages, including:
- Outlooks
- Advisories
- Watches
- Warnings
Tropical Weather Outlooks
Tropical weather outlooks follow disturbed weather patterns and their potential for development during the next five days.
Tropical Weather Advisories
Tropical Weather Advisories list all current coastal watches and warnings associated with ongoing or potential tropical cyclones, including their:
- Position
- Current Motion
- Maximum Sustained Winds
- Description of Hazards, including tornadoes or flooding from heavy rain
Tropical Weather Warnings In Florida
Tropical weather warnings can be reported in many categories that can affect the well-being of our Florida residents.
They can include:
- Storm Surge Warning
Storm surge warnings indicate that there is danger from rising water moving inland from the shoreline, generally within 36 hours.
- Tropical Storm Warning
Tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are expected within 36 hours.
Florida Hurricane Watches & Warnings
- Hurricane Watches
A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions, including sustained of 74 mph or greater, are possible and are issued 48 hours in advance of tropical-storm-force winds.
- Hurricane Warnings
Hurricane warnings occur when sustained winds of 74 mph or greater are expected.
The National Hurricane Center issues hurricane warnings 36 hours in advance of tropical-storm-force winds to give residents the time they need to complete hurricane safety preparations.
Extreme Wind Warnings
Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane, which are those measuring 115 mph or greater, are typically associated with the eye wall of a hurricane and are expected to begin within an hour.
Extreme wind warnings require residents to take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.
During hurricane season, it is important to listen closely to all instructions issued from local officials and to follow all the necessary directions to remain safe, which can include evacuating if told to do so.
Preparing for this season’s potential hurricanes starts with reviewing your insurance policies to ensure you are covered by any storm damage that may occur. If you have questions about your policy, contact The Morgan Law Group hurricane insurance claims attorneys today to review and discuss your coverage by calling (305) 569-9900 today.
