The threat of severe weather rises in the South

"While there are typically more tornadoes in the Spring, late year tornadoes are possible. These weather events can occur rapidly and with little warning, so vigilance and advanced preparation are very important," said Karen Collins, vice president property and environmental for APCIA. "Often these storms occur at night, which can make them very deadly. Nighttime tornadoes are twice as deadly as daytime tornadoes. We encourage consumers to know the warning signals used in their community and to be prepared to take cover when alerted. Maintaining an emergency storm kit with a radio, flashlight, batteries, and first-aid items is one step in preparation. Financial preparedness tips also include a review of your insurance policies and discussing coverage options with your insurance agent or company to address any potential coverage gaps before a loss occurs."

Over the past 10 years, there have been 70 percent more tornadoes in October compared to September, based on data from the National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center. The increase in tornado activity in October, November, and December, is known as the second tornado season. In October 2021 there were 146 tornadoes and in 2022 there were 117 November tornadoes and 203 tornadoes in December.

"Most tornadoes, windstorms, hail, and similar severe weather-related losses are covered either by an automobile's comprehensive coverage, homeowners, renters or commercial insurance policies," said Collins. "Whenever severe weather occurs insurance adjusters are available to move quickly and help storm victims put their lives back together."

If tornadoes or severe weather produces damage, APCIA offers the following recovery tips:

* Secure property from further damage or theft.

* Contact your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible to report damage.

* Inventory losses and photograph damage to provide to your insurance adjustor. Save receipts.

* If you are a business owner, keep detailed records of business activity that is negatively affected due to the tornado or storm and keep a list of extra expenses during the interruption. Prepare records to show the income from the business before and after the loss.

* Many standard homeowners' and renters' policies provide reimbursement of additional living expenses when the property is determined to be uninhabitable due to damage from a covered loss. This provision helps with paying for increases to necessary living expenses such as temporary housing and restaurant meals. In addition, extra expenses such as overnight parking and laundry services may also be covered. Additional living expense coverage does not pay for all living expenses, so contact your insurance company or agent for a list of what your policy will cover.

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Original text here: https://www.apci.org/media/news-releases/release/77664/