With damaging winds, storm surges, torrential rain and flooding, hurricanes pose a significant threat to property, operations and employee safety.
Businesses can significantly increase their chances of weathering the storm by taking proactive steps and implementing a comprehensive hurricane preparedness plan.
Expert insight
The cornerstone of hurricane preparedness is a well-defined Business Continuity Plan (BCP). This roadmap outlines the steps your business will take before, during and after a hurricane to minimise disruption and ensure a smooth recovery.
Christine Sullivan
EVP, Head of Risk Control, North America
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was intense and unforgettable, with 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). For the first time since 2019, multiple Category 5 hurricanes formed, including Hurricane Milton, which rapidly intensified over the Gulf of Mexico. Ultimately, the season became the third-costliest on record, leaving a lasting impact.
As hurricane season approaches, forecasters are watching the transition from El Niño to La Niña during the summer and fall months. According to NOAA, this shift typically supports stronger hurricane activity in the Atlantic.
The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be active, with forecasts suggesting:
Contributing factors include warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures, potential ENSO-neutral conditions and the likelihood of rapid storm intensification.
While the season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, coastal businesses should prepare early, as the risk of landfall in the US and Caribbean is higher than average.
To ensure businesses can emerge safely from what is expected to be an active season, a strong risk management plan is essential.
A well-defined BCP should include:
Identify essential personnel
Designate a team responsible for communication, security, property assessment and recovery operations.
Back up data and ensure security
Establish a robust backup strategy, storing critical data securely off-site in a geographically separate location.
Conduct risk assessments
Identify vulnerabilities across facilities, operations and supply chains to prioritise mitigation efforts.
Develop communication plans
Use multiple channels (email, text, social media) to keep employees, vendors and clients informed—even during power outages.
Review insurance coverage
Ensure policies are up to date and include adequate protection for wind damage, flooding, business interruption and other hurricane-related risks.
Given the potential damage to buildings and infrastructure, consider:
Exterior protection
Board up windows with shutters or plywood. Secure loose outdoor items, signage and satellite dishes.
Flood mitigation
Clear drains and gutters. Use sandbags at entry points. Consider permanent flood protection solutions if needed.
Equipment security
Anchor furniture and equipment. Move sensitive items and important documents to higher ground.
Equipment maintenance
Ensure backup generators are maintained, fuelled and operational.
Having supplies on hand is critical:
Pre-storm communication
Provide updates via multiple channels. Share evacuation plans, remote working options and shelter locations.
Flexible work arrangements
Offer remote or flexible working where possible to support employee safety.
Post-storm communication
Keep employees informed on reopening timelines and safe return procedures.
Hurricanes can disrupt logistics, so consider:
Diversify suppliers
Reduce reliance on a single source vulnerable to disruption.
Inventory management
Maintain buffer stock of critical materials.
Vendor communication
Establish contingency plans with key suppliers to ensure continuity.
Damage assessment
Inspect property only when safe. Avoid unstable structures and electrical hazards.
Recovery planning
Develop a realistic timeline for resuming operations.
Stakeholder communication
Keep employees, clients and vendors informed.
Insurance claims
File claims promptly and cooperate with adjusters.
Documentation
Keep detailed records of damage, repairs and losses.
Debris removal and cleanup
Use qualified professionals and remain aware of hazards such as downed power lines and contaminated water.
Evaluate supply chain
Identify alternative suppliers or routes if disruption persists.
Sompo works through a global distribution network of retail and wholesale brokers and MGUs to provide high-quality and responsive services to a broad range of clients, from large multinationals to small businesses.
Post-storm, it is important to evaluate how your BCP performed and make adjustments for the future. The best time to plan for the next disaster is immediately after the last.
This is also an ideal time to work with your carrier to review coverage and consider any necessary policy changes based on recent storm impacts.
To learn more please reach out to your Sompo Risk Control Specialist or contact us at +1 877 667 5733 or RiskControlQuestions@sompo-intl.com.
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