The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season began quietly on June 1. But will we face another billion-dollar storm like Hurricane Ian from the 2022 season or will the year be relatively calm? Read on to learn more about 2023 hurricane predictions.
2023 Hurricane Predictions for the Atlantic Season
Hurricane Ian was the most destructive hurricane of the 2022 season, with $112.9 billion in damages. While we can’t know for sure whether we will see another storm of this magnitude, we can predict whether the hurricane season will be average or if we will see more or less activity than usual.
Of course, predictions can prove false. Hurricanes and tropical storms can change course, speed, and strength quickly. And these storms have devastating consequences every year for some parts of the world.
NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) has predicted a close-to-average hurricane year. These average conditions mean we could see 12 to 17 named storms. Of these, five to nine will likely become hurricanes, including one to four major hurricanes. The reasons for this lower activity include the prediction of an El Niño developing this year, which tends to calm Atlantic hurricane conditions.
The predictions from Colorado State University fall in line with NOAA’s averages. The university is predicting 15 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes for the season.
While most of the major services are predicting an average to slightly below-average season this year, the UK Met Office released a report predicting higher-than-usual activity. They have predicted 20 named storms, with 11 hurricanes and 5 major storms. This forecast downplayed the effects of El Niño on reducing storm activity in the region.
Help Your Clients Prepare in Advance For Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
Even if we enjoy a mild hurricane season in 2023, residents and visitors to hurricane-prone areas must still prepare for storm activity. You can help your policyholders prepare for the hurricane season with some simple tips:
- Plan an evacuation route.
- Pack emergency supplies, including bottled water, prescription medicines and first aid supplies, pet food, and batteries.
- Make copies of important documents and store them safely away from the originals.
- Review insurance policies and take inventory of belongings. Add the insurance company’s contact information and the policy number to mobile phones and hand-written contact lists.
- Take proactive action to strengthen homes and other structures to better withstand hurricane forces.
- Be careful after storms have passed when returning to homes or venturing outside. Flooding, downed power lines, storm debris, and other hazards are likely to be present.
- Report losses promptly to insurance companies or agents. Starting the claims process early benefits everyone.
As an agent, you can also help when your policyholders are in the potential path of a tropical storm or hurricane. You can send alerts and information to your policyholders about preparing for storms, securing their homes, and taking inventory of their property to make an insurance claim easier.
You can also talk with policyholders at renewal time and when they purchase a new policy about their coverage. Explain coverage limits, deductibles, conditions, and exclusions. Discuss any additional endorsements or policies they should consider based on their hurricane exposure — and be sure to document the discussion and keep signed coverage declinations on file. This helps reduce your possible E&O risk while also ensuring your policyholders understand their coverage needs and policy restrictions.
Become a Member of the American Agents Alliance For More Tips
Independent agents and brokers across the U.S. benefit from joining the American Agents Alliance. Not only will you enjoy access to more helpful tips for working with your policyholders and managing your agency, but you will also have access to E&O insurance to help protect you and your agency.
Get your free quote today and see how being a member of the American Agents Alliance can help you!
