Hurricane Season is Here. Are you Ready?
Your Guide to be prepared here on the Gulf Coast
What the 2026 Forecast Looks Like
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service are calling for a below-average hurricane season in 2026.Here’s what they’re predicting:
8 to 14 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher)
3 to 6 Hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher)
1 to 3 Major Hurricanes (Category 3+)
They’re also putting:
55% chance of below-normal activity
35% chance of near-normal activity
10% chance of above normal activity
A typical season has 14 storms and 7 Hurricanes, so this year is expected to be quieter on paper.
But here is the important thing to remember from NOAA: “It only takes one storm to make for a very bad season.”
And along the Gulf Coast, we’ve seen exactly how true that can be.
source: noaa.gov
Early Preparation is Essential to Staying Safe All Season
What “Being Ready” Actually means
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Inspect your roof and shingles for loose spots that could let water in
Clean gutters and drains to prevent water backup
Trim trees with loose branches near your home
Secure outdoor furniture and other items that become airborne before a storm hits
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Have a backup generator
Stock batteries, flashlights and portable chargers
Have a store of non-perishable food items and water
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Document it for all household members, not just an “idea”
Plan for pets
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Photos of your home, roof, & contents to make the claims process more smooth and faster
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Do you have wind coverage?
Do you have flood coverage?
What is your wind deductible? (read more below)
Has the cost to replace your home increased?
The Most Misunderstood Thing in Alabama Insurance
If you live in Mobile or Baldwin County, this is critical:
You probably don’t just have one deductible
Most homeowners in our area have separate storm-related deductibles, including:
Wind Deductible
Applies to any wind damage (thunderstorms, tropical storms, hurricanes)
Named Storm Deductible
Applies when a storm is officially named by the National Weather Service
This includes tropical storms, not just hurricanes
Often higher than your normal deductible
Usually a percentage of your home value (1% - 10%)
Hurricane Deductible
Applies only when the storm reaches hurricane strength
Closing it Out
On the Gulf Coast, protecting your home through insurance is often split into pieces:
A Homeowners Policy
Either a separated wind policy or a higher deductible portion of your homeowners policy
A flood insurance policy
Why?
Flood is never covered by homeowners or wind policies
Wind coverage is sometimes excluded in coastal areas
Living on the Gulf Coast is worth it for the water, the lifestyle, and the community.
But it also means you need to be a little more intentional than most people when it comes to protecting your home.
If you’re not 100% sure
What your deductible is
Whether you have wind coverage
Or if you believe you’re paying too much with a high deductible
