Hurricanes are products of the tropical ocean and atmosphere. Powered by heat from the sea, they are steered by the easterly trade winds and the temperate westerly winds, as well as by their own energy. As they move ashore, they bring with them a storm surge of ocean water along the coastline, high winds, tornadoes, torrential rains, and flooding

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Each year on average, ten tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, or Gulf of Mexico. About six of these typically strengthen enough to become hurricanes. Many of these remain over the ocean with little or no impact on the continental United States. However, about five hurricanes strike the United States coastline every three years. Here is how you can be prepared.

Before a Hurricane

Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.

  • Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
  • Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
  • Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
  • Determine how and where to secure your boat.
  • Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
  • Moor your boat if time permits.

During a Hurricane

If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:

  • Listen to the radio or TV for information.
  • Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
  • Turn off propane tanks.
  • Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
  • Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

After a Hurricane

Due to the potential severity of a category storm event, it may take several days (in some cases) before an adjuster is able to inspect your home. If your home is habitable and you’re not under evacuation orders, you can expedite the claims process by doing the following:

  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible if you have or suspect any damage from a hurricane.
  • Complete any necessary temporary or emergency repairs to your covered property to prevent further damage from occurring. Our preferred vendor, Allied Restoration & Construction is available to assist with all emergency repair needs.
    Their 24 hotline is: 844-9-ALLIED (844-925-5433)
  • Prepare a list of all damaged items.
  • Take photos and videos to document the damaged property and keep any damaged items in a safe location so the adjuster can complete an inspection of those items.
  • Keep all receipts for any repairs or additional living costs you may incur as a result of the storm and provide them to your adjuster for consideration.

We are committed to helping you recover as quickly as possible following your covered loss. Please contact us or your insurance agent with any questions. Thank you for being a valued Cypress policyholder.