Record-breaking 2020 Storms & Pandemic Precautions May Increase Preparedness for 2021 Hurricane Season

05/25/2023

(TALLAHASSEE, FL) - Americans in hurricane-prone states are more likely to prepare early for storms this year compared to last year, according to a new survey from the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH). With 30 named storms in 2020, along with more time spent at home due to the pandemic, Americans have turned to quick and affordable options to brace for storms.

A virtual news conference hosted today by FLASH, with special guest National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham, addressed the survey findings and the steps homeowners can take to prepare for hurricanes and mitigate home and financial damage. View the news conference recap at https://www.flashlive.org

FLASH surveyed 500 residents across ten hurricane-prone states to better understand consumer awareness of hurricane safety and their readiness for 2021 hurricanes and recovery efforts.

Top survey findings included:

• Nearly 80% of respondents plan to prepare for the 2021 hurricane season — up 21 percentage points over the 59% who said they planned to prepare in 2020.
• Most respondents are willing to spend at least $100-500 on storm preparation.
• Fewer than half of respondents review their home insurance policy annually, despite the fact that having adequate financial post-storm resources is a critical factor for successful recovery.

"As we approach the 2021 hurricane season, it's crucial that homeowners prepare before a disaster strikes," said FLASH President and CEO Leslie Chapman-Henderson. "Those precautions include having a thorough understanding of your home and flood insurance policies, completing low-cost DIY home preparation activities, and working out detailed evacuation plans."

FLASH's #HurricaneStrong preparation center provides free bilingual DIY checklists and information sheets on topics including building codes, evacuation zones, insurance, power outage, protecting pets and sandbags, as well as strengthening homes against flooding, high winds, and lightning.