Facing the Storm: Preparing for an Active 2025 Hurricane Season
July 15, 2025 | Written by Erin McCafferty
In the past year, the U.S. experienced a sharp increase in severe weather events. From hurricanes to inland storms, the total damages exceeded $120 billion, making it one of the costliest years on record. Climate change is intensifying these events, with warmer ocean temperatures and increased atmospheric moisture fueling more powerful storms.
NOAA is forecasting an above-normal 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, with 13–19 named storms, 6–10 hurricanes, and 3–5 major hurricanes. Warm ocean waters and weaker wind shear are contributing factors, signaling a heightened threat for homeowners and businesses alike. (NOAA Forecast).
Premium Shock: Rising Home Insurance in 2025
Homeowners across the country are feeling the pressure as insurance costs continue to climb:
- Homeowners insurance premiums are projected to rise by 10–25% in 2025.
- In storm-prone states like Florida and Louisiana, rate hikes could reach 40–50%, driven by increased claims and rising reinsurance costs.
With more frequent storms and larger payouts, insurers are adjusting rates to reflect growing risk.
Hurricanes & Commercial Risk: The Hidden Costs
Businesses are also facing growing vulnerability from hurricanes and severe weather:
- Supply Chain Disruption: Ports and logistics hubs impacted by storms have caused multi-day delays across manufacturing and retail.
- Tourism Losses: Coastal destinations can lose billions in storm-related cancellations and lost revenue.
- Construction Delays: Site shutdowns, material shortages, and damage have cost the industry over $1 billion in some cases.
- Business Interruption: Nationwide, storm-related business interruption losses now exceed $30 billion annually.
From storefronts to factories, severe weather increasingly means lost time, revenue, and opportunity.
Adapt or Perish: A New Climate Playbook
To stay ahead of this evolving risk landscape, both homeowners and business owners need to take proactive steps:
For Homeowners:
- Get a Risk Assessment: Understand your property’s vulnerability to flood, wind, and water backup.
- Upgrade Your Policy: Talk to your agent about adding flood, water backup, and ordinance & law endorsements.
- Strengthen Your Property: Install hurricane shutters, reinforce your roof, and consider sump pumps or drainage improvements.
- Keep a Home Inventory: Document belongings with photos and receipts to simplify claims.
For Business Owners:
- Review Your Insurance: Ensure business interruption and contingent coverage are up to date.
- Update Emergency Plans: Create and rehearse continuity strategies for storm-related disruptions.
- Harden Infrastructure: Flood-proof buildings, secure equipment, and protect power systems.
- Build Flexibility: Identify alternate suppliers and remote operations strategies to avoid total shutdowns.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Schedule a Policy Review with an Agent: Understand what’s covered and what isn’t before the next storm hits.
- Upgrade Key Coverages: Make sure flood, wind, and business continuity risks are properly addressed.
- Invest in Risk Mitigation: Home and business upgrades often lead to premium discounts.
- Act Before Peak Season: With storms expected to increase in intensity, time is of the essence.
Final Takeaway
2025’s storm season is shaping up to be another intense one. With costs rising and risks growing, preparation is more important than ever. Donegal Insurance Group is here to help you protect what matters most—your home, your business, and your peace of mind.
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