Why Do They Name Hurricanes?

Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic are given names to reduce confusion in communications when two or more storms occur simultaneously. Traditionally, storms were only assigned female names, much like a sailing vessel. However, the naming system was revised about 40 years ago.

Each year, the names of the storms are predetermine and are a combination of both male and female names. The tropical storm names chosen for 2017 are as follows: Arlene, Bret, Cindy, Don, Emily, Franklin, Gert, Harvey, Irma, Jose, Katia, Lee, Maria, Nate, Ophelia, Philippe, Rina, Sean, Tammy, Vince, Whitney. Still curious? Learn more here.

Do I need hurricane insurance in Texas?

Some insurance policies include coverage for hurricane, wind, and hail storms. However, if your home is located near a coastal county or along the Gulf of Mexico, your policy might exclude or limit this coverage. Check your home, renters and Texas condo insurance policy today to see if you have coverage hurricane. If your home or condo insurance policy does not cover wind, storm, or hail, you will need to purchase a second policy to address the risk of hurricane. Speak with your personal Texas independent insurance agent so you can choose the coverage most significant to you.

It is important to note that you cannot buy coverage once a hurricane has been named or entered the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally your home or condo unit must pass an inspection and windstorm-resistant building standards before a policy can be issued. Did you know June 1st marks the beginning of hurricane season?

What if a hurricane causes flooding?

Long periods of steady rainfall and flash downpours of rain can cause flooding. Even if you are in Central or North Texas, hundreds of miles away from the Gulf Coast, the rain bands from a hurricane reach inland and cause a significant amount of rain fall in a short period of time.

Flood or rising water can occur anywhere and is not covered on most homeowners, renters, or even condo insurance policy in Texas. Something as simple as a clogged street gutter or runoff from new construction developments can cause flooding in areas that previously have had no history of rising water. Whether you own or rent a home, your property and belongings are important to you. Click here to start your condominium, renters or Texas homeowners insurance quote.

Hurricane resources to help organize, plan and prepare your family, home and pets:

• Department of Homeland Security-https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
• National Hurricane Center – www.nhc.noaa.gov
• National Weather Service – www.weather.gov
• Caribbean Hurricane Network – www.stormcarib.com
• Hurricane & Storm Tracking for Atlantic & Pacific Oceans – hurricane.terrapin.com