Hurricanes are the most destructive and expensive natural disaster in the world. Even a fairly weak hurricane can cause flooding, wind damage, and power outages, dramatically affecting people’s homes. Unfortunately, hurricanes are becoming stronger and more dangerous due to climate change. While the frequency of hurricanes overall may remain unchanged in the future, those that do hit are much more likely to be catastrophic.
So what can homeowners do to prepare? How can you find out if your property is at risk?
To help current and future home searchers understand the impact of climate change on hurricane winds, Redfin has partnered with climate nonprofit First Street to show the Wind Factor™️ for every property on Redfin.com. Wind Factor™️ builds off of decades of peer-reviewed research to show the current and future hurricane wind risks for every home, city, and county so homebuyers and homeowners have all the information they need when deciding where to live.
Wind Factor™️ uses the First Street Wind Model to determine a specific location’s exposure to tropical storm winds and above (at least 39 mph sustained) and how it will change in 30 years. The model analyzes tens of thousands of hurricane models and accounts for surrounding local conditions (i.e. landscape). Wind Factor™️ only measures risks associated with hurricanes and tropical storms; tornadoes and other windstorms are not included. Wind Factor™️ is available for any location in the contiguous United States. More information can be found on the Risk Factor™ website.
Wind Risk Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare your home for a hurricane?
-Create a waterproof emergency kit, including water, food, manual can opener, medications, first aid kit, hygiene supplies, flashlights, and more.
-Secure doors and windows.
-Install a backup power source.
-Review your insurance coverage.
-Establish a safe room or build a storm shelter.
-Inspect and repair your roof.
-Clean gutters and downspouts.
-Trim trees and shrubs.
-Secure outdoor objects, including furniture, decorations, and waste bins.
-Prepare an evacuation plan.
Does my homeowners insurance cover storm damage?
Do I need a storm door?
How do you build a storm shelter?
If you’re planning on building your own storm shelter, keep materials in mind. Shelters are typically built with a tough outer layer, two layers of plywood, an interior side made of 14-gauge steel, and a steel door fastened with deadbolts. You’ll also want to assess the best place for your shelter. Places like an existing basement can be easily converted when necessary.
If you need financial assistance to build a storm shelter, you can contact your local government to see if options are available. FEMA provides funding to eligible states, tribes, and territories that provide funding to local communities.
What do you do after a hurricane?
Once you’re finished logging damage, it’s time to prevent further damage. Some easy steps include covering broken windows and roof holes with tarp or plywood. Then, call your insurance agent. The insurance company will likely reach out to contractors and schedule the work directly to avoid any scams.
Don’t forget to keep thorough documentation for claims to your homeowner’s insurance and save all receipts to receive reimbursement.
The Top 10 U.S. Metros With the Highest Risk of Hurricane Winds
Rank | Metro | Share of Properties With a High Wind Factor® Risk | Total Properties With a High Wind Factor® Risk |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Houston, TX | 100% | 2,447,508 |
2 | Tampa, FL | 100% | 1,163,053 |
3 | Nassu County, NY | 95% | 983,269 |
4 | Orlando, FL | 100% | 941,467 |
5 | San Antonio, TX | 100% | 940,588 |
6 | Philadephia, PA | 100% | 741,013 |
7 | Austin, TX | 100% | 734,690 |
8 | Virginia Beach, VA | 100% | 671,879 |
9 | Jacksonville, FL | 100% | 655,508 |
10 | Providence, RI | 100% | 573,491 |
*“High risk” is defined as a property having a Wind Factor™️ of 5 (major) or higher. Since 189 metros have 100% of properties at risk, table is sorted by total properties at risk.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider. Consumers should independently verify any claim, agency, or service mentioned. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.
Additional Storm Risk Resources
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