SKISAFE BLOG

What’s in Store for the Rest of the 2024 Hurricane Season

 

The Latest on the 2024 Hurricane Season

Back in May, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted an 85% chance of an above-normal hurricane season. While an average season sees around 14 named storms, many experts forecasted up to 25 for 2024.

So far, this year has brought several named storms, with the most recent being Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton—marking the eighth and ninth named storms to form in the Atlantic. 

Looking ahead, forecasters expect the season to remain active, with conditions primed for more storms to develop. The Atlantic hurricane season typically peaks between mid-August and late October, meaning there is still time for significant storm activity.

Rising Ocean Temperatures and Hurricane Season

Rising ocean temperatures in the Caribbean and tropical Atlantic are causing hurricane season to begin earlier than usual. Typically, storms don’t gain momentum until later in the season, once the oceans have had time to warm.  

However, this year, parts of the Atlantic were already as much as 2 to 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than normal as early as June and July. These elevated temperatures provide the energy hurricanes need to form and intensify. 

Bottom line: Warm water helps make for stronger, more frequent storms. 

Here’s some more on how warm oceans power storms.

Preparing for the Rest of Hurricane Season

For boaters, preparation is the key to weathering the remainder of the season. With the unpredictability of storms, having the right boat insurance coverage in place is very important. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to review your insurance policy to ensure it includes coverage for named storms.

Does Boat Insurance Cover Hurricanes?

It can, but it's important to secure coverage early. Once a storm is named, new policies may not cover any claims related to it. Insurance is designed to protect against unforeseen events, and once a storm is named, it becomes a "foreseeable event." To ensure you're protected, it's best to purchase a plan before a storm begins to develop.

» MORE: A Guide on Named Storms

Understanding Named Storm and Hurricane Haul-Out Coverage

Named Storm Coverage typically protects your boat from damage caused by a tropical depression, storm, or hurricane named by the National Hurricane Center. 

(Note: insurers may require a storm preparedness plan, including details on where the boat will be hauled and stored during severe weather.)

Additionally, many boat insurance policies offer Hurricane Haul-Out Coverage, which reimburses the cost of safely hauling your boat out of the water or moving it to a more secure location ahead of an approaching storm. Having this coverage can make a big difference when preparing for a major weather event.

How to Get Covered

At SkiSafe, adding or updating your coverage is a simple process. You can make changes directly through our website, and it should only take a few minutes.  

If you’d prefer to speak with an underwriter before making any changes, our team is available and ready to assist. You can reach us by phone or email. 


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