The 2024 hurricane season was one for the books, resulting in $182.7 billion in damages, according to the NOAA Office for Coastal Management. Storms such as Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton were some of the most destructive of the year.
What’s in store for 2025? NOAA has predicted an “above-normal” hurricane season, and the first named storm—Hurricane Barbara, has already formed. It’s not expected to make landfall, but it’s a clear warning: This season could be dangerous.
If you’re a homeowner, the time to start prepping is now.
The current hurricane outlook and how it compares with recent years
“Five hurricanes and one unnamed subtropical storm made landfall in the U.S. in 2024,” says Jonathan Porter, chief meteorologist at AccuWeather in State College, PA.
While fewer named storms are expected this year compared with last year, the total number of storms isn’t what truly defines a hurricane season. It is the impact on land and populated areas.
“It only takes one landfall to create a devastating season,” Porter explains.
Porter and the AccuWeather team forecast between three to six hurricanes in 2025. Texas, Louisiana, West Florida, North Carolina, and Atlantic Canada are all at higher-than-average risk of direct impacts this year.
“Everyone needs to start planning and preparing for hurricane season. Climatology, weather patterns, water temperatures, and many other factors all point to yet another active Atlantic hurricane season with more tropical storms and hurricanes forming compared to the historical average,” says Porter.
7 steps homeowners should take to prepare their homes and protect their families
With hurricanes becoming more frequent and severe, taking steps to protect your home can significantly reduce the risk of costly damage and the emotional toll of displacement.
“Imagine being unable to live in your home for months, or even years, while repairs from hurricane damage drag on. Although insurance helps cover financial losses, it can’t replace sentimental items or the sense of security that comes from being in your home,” says Diane Delaney, executive director of the Private Risk Management Organization in Traverse City, MI.
Here’s what you can do to be proactive:
1. Secure and seal your roof and windows
Roofs are exposed to weather throughout the year, so remember to inspect your roof and make repairs regularly, especially ahead of hurricane season.
“Don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a roofing professional,” says Courtney Klosterman, home insights expert at Hippo Home Insurance in Palo Alto, CA.
Clearing out the debris from your gutters is also crucial to help prevent water damage that can occur from hurricanes. When gutters are clogged with debris, rainwater can’t flow freely, leading to water buildup. This excess water can cause damage to your roof, foundation, and siding.
Also, windows and doors, especially garage doors, which are common weak points during storms, should be fortified to help protect your home.
2. Make sure flood insurance and homeowners insurance are up to date
Check your homeowners’ insurance policy for hurricane-related coverage details. While standard policies might include wind damage caused by hurricanes, they often exclude floods. Supplemental hurricane insurance is essential to ensure comprehensive coverage in storm-prone areas.
Confirm that your policy is up to date and that you know what’s covered. It’s also important to understand the out-of-pocket expenses tied to hurricane and wind deductibles, as these costs can vary.
3. Create a hurricane emergency kit
Having a hurricane preparedness kit is essential if your home is in hurricane-prone areas. Include necessities such as food, water, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, and a battery-powered charger. Don’t forget to pack essential personal items like medications, eyeglasses, and important documents like birth certificates, Social Security cards, and health insurance information.
“Remember to check your supplies annually to ensure everything is up to date and in working order. Many home improvement and box stores will quickly run out of supplies at the earliest hint of a hurricane—stock up before the season strikes,” explains Klosterman.
4. Design a family evacuation plan
Make sure to rehearse different scenarios, like what to do if loved ones are outside the home or if it’s the middle of the night. Evaluate and adjust your plan to fit the household’s needs and different scenarios until everyone feels confident.
Klosteman recommends that you choose at least two safe routes to escape to in your area in case of road closures or traffic congestion. It’s also a good idea to research typical traffic patterns during emergencies to help you plan your route. Additionally, familiarize yourself with public shelters in your area, just in case you need them.
5. Document your home’s contents and structure before a storm
Creating an up-to-date home inventory can help ensure you have the right amount of homeowners insurance to protect your belongings. It might also come in handy if you need to file a claim.
“Trying to recall every single thing you had in your home right after something as serious as a hurricane can be overwhelming, but if you take the time now, it could be a huge relief in the long run,” says Klosterman.
The best way to create a home inventory is to walk through every room and document all your belongings and their approximate value. Take photos of each item, especially valuables, and organize them into categories like electronics, furniture, clothing, and jewelry.
Secure important documents by storing originals in a safe deposit box and keeping copies at home. Consider scanning documents for electronic storage so you can access documents from anywhere.
Remember to review and update your inventory annually or whenever significant changes occur. Add new items and remove old ones to ensure accuracy.
6. Trim trees and remove exterior hazards—such as your car
“Cut back long branches that extend over your home or other structures on your property. This will prevent any damage from fallen limbs during storms,” says Klosterman.
While you’re already outside, store or cover outdoor items like patio furniture or barbecue grills.
These items can be damaged or even picked up during a large hurricane. Make a plan if you normally keep them out in the open during the spring and summer seasons.
“Consider preparing your vehicle by moving it to higher ground or parking it in a garage or under a covered structure to protect it from strong winds, rain, and flying debris,” adds Klosterman.
Homeowners insurance policies might have specifications for securing cars and other property in case of storms or floods. Safeguarding these items in accordance with your policy will help ensure they are covered.
7. Install a backup generator or power source
If your home loses power during a storm and water comes in, you’ll need electricity to operate fans or dehumidifiers to dry out your home and prevent mold growth. That’s where generators come in.
Portable generators can give you short-term power and run essential appliances, but you’ll have to set them up and refuel manually. Standby generators, on the other hand, are permanently installed and automatically turn on during outages.
Though they require a larger upfront investment, standby generators are more convenient and reliable, making them a worthwhile investment if your budget allows.
The regions most at risk this hurricane season
Some states, such as Florida and Texas, are at a significantly higher risk of seeing property damage than others. However, all coastal states and cities along the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico could potentially be in the path of destructive winds.
“Weather patterns can vary from year to year, so the time to prepare is now. Even if you didn’t experience a hurricane last season, you could be at risk this year,” says Peter Piotrowski, chief claims officer at Hippo Home Insurance.
Additionally, if you recently moved into your home, you might be unfamiliar with hurricane season and what that means for you.
You can access maps to identify potential hurricane hot spots using government websites like FloodSmart and Ready. Another great resource is the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which is required to update flood maps every five years.
It’s also smart to consult with locals in your area: neighbors, homeowners associations, and even your previous homeowner to learn about the area’s history and vulnerability to hurricanes. You could unknowingly live in a flood-prone area, so staying informed is crucial for preparedness.
Insurance coverage varies by state and why it matters more than ever
In states such as Florida and Louisiana, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for homeowners to find affordable and comprehensive insurance coverage.
“Many carriers have exited these markets, pushing homeowners toward state-backed insurance pools or surplus lines options, which often come with more exclusions and higher premiums,” says Erika Tortorici, owner of Optimum Insurance Solutions in South Hamilton, MA.
On the other hand, states such as North and South Carolina currently have more private insurers participating in the market, which gives homeowners greater access to coverage and more competitive pricing.
Wherever you live, the best thing you can do is work with a knowledgeable insurance agent who understands the landscape and can help you find a carrier still writing policies in your state,” explains Tortorici. Being proactive can make a big difference in securing the right protection at a price you can manage.
Carol McDaniel is a dedicated and results-driven professional with 5 years of experience and US News. Known for her strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset, Carol has built a reputation for delivering high-impact results across diverse teams and projects.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in 2 core skills or areas, e.g., client relations and project coordination, and is passionate about continuous learning and meaningful contribution. Carol thrives in dynamic environments and consistently brings professionalism, adaptability, and a focus on growth to every role she takes on.