New Jersey Officials Urge Protection as Hurricane Season Begins

As the Atlantic hurricane season kicks off, state authorities call for preparedness through thorough insurance reviews and early planning.

NEW JERSEY – With the onset of the Atlantic hurricane season, Acting Commissioner Justin Zimmerman of the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance is advising residents to proactively review their insurance coverage and prepare for potential storm threats. The hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, sees its peak storm activity in New Jersey from August to October, heightening risks of severe weather impacts including heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding.

In anticipation of these events, Commissioner Zimmerman emphasizes the importance of understanding and verifying insurance policies well before storms make landfall. A critical step for homeowners and renters is ensuring their policies cover potential damages, notably since standard homeowners and renters insurance often does not include flood damage. For comprehensive protection, residents are encouraged to consider policies through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the primary source for residential flood insurance.

“The nation has experienced an increase in extreme storm activity in recent years that has brought hazards, loss and devastation. As we approach a time where hurricanes and tropical storms are more likely to occur, I encourage New Jerseyans to take the appropriate precautions and preparations in advance to protect themselves, their family and belongings from threats before they arrive,” said Acting Commissioner Zimmerman. “Prepare for storms today by reviewing insurance policies and evaluating coverage needs."

It's important to note that flood insurance policies have a 30-day activation period from the date of purchase. Therefore, residents are urged to secure their policies promptly, rather than waiting until a storm is imminent. Information on obtaining flood insurance can be found on the department's website, which lists approved providers in New Jersey.

Beyond insurance, residents should prepare a survival plan that includes an inventory of property and valuables, updated contact information for insurance agents and companies, and copies of essential documents like birth certificates and medical records stored in a secure and dry place. Such measures are crucial for efficient claim processing post-disaster.

For further guidance on storm preparation, hurricane readiness, and navigating post-storm insurance claims, residents can visit the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance website. Acting Commissioner Zimmerman’s call to action underscores the necessity for readiness in the face of nature's unpredictability and aims to ensure that all New Jerseyans are both protected and prepared for the hurricane season ahead.