It should be a busy storm season on Long Island,...

It should be a busy storm season on Long Island, and preparing before a storm arrives is essential. Credit: Getty Images / Warren Faidley

This year's Atlantic hurricane season might be one for the books. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts up to 13 hurricanes between June 1 and Nov. 30, with as many as seven reaching at least Category 3 status. If the prediction is accurate, this year will be one of the most active Atlantic hurricane seasons on record.

For coastal homeowners, this could mean home damage — even if they live inland.

“You can still see wind damage, even if you’re not experiencing those maximum winds,” says Sarah Dillingham, senior meteorologist at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.

Many homeowners who live in hurricane zones tend to wait until a storm is tracking toward them to get ready, but that can cause expensive mistakes.

“Being well-prepared for hurricane season is a process that takes time and thought,” says Mellanee Roberts, deputy emergency management coordinator for the City of Pearland in Texas, by email.

Here are seven tips to put you ahead of the weather.

1. Trim or remove trees near your home

“Homeowners should be sure to trim away any tree branches and landscaping that would hit the house in heavy wind,” Roberts said.

According to NOAA, a Category 1 hurricane (the weakest category) is strong enough to break large tree branches. When combined with rain-saturated soil, the winds can also uproot entire trees.

Branches that are weak or dead are the most vulnerable to high winds and can take out your roof or guttering on their way down.

2. Look for loose or damaged fence boards

Winds over 39 mph are enough to turn items into projectiles, according to the National Weather Service. That means loose or damaged fence boards will be more susceptible to high winds than their secured counterparts.

To give your fence its best chance, fix or replace pieces that won’t stay attached or that show signs of damage.

3. Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles

Your roof takes the brunt of hurricane winds, which can exceed 157 mph, according to the National Weather Service. That can lead to missing shingles or tiles, holes from debris and damage where the wind rips away solar panels, satellite dishes or other attachments.

If you see sections of your roof that are discolored after rain, loose or damaged shingles, loose or bent flashing that connects your chimney to the shingles, or cracked vents, it might be time to call in a professional.

4. Clean out your gutters

Slow-moving hurricanes that sit over areas for a long time can dump several inches of rain an hour, as Hurricane Harvey did in Texas in 2017. That means gutters need to be ready to divert the water.

5. Check your windows and doors

Hurricane-force winds can drive rain into your home through small gaps in windows and doors.

“If you’ve got a vulnerable opening, your water’s going to try to find a way in,” Dillingham says.

For windows and doors, check that the flashing — a strip of special material installed around the exterior of the openings — isn’t damaged or pulling away from the house.

6. Clean out space in your garage

Although bringing loose items indoors is essential before a hurricane arrives — think of all the YouTube videos of trampolines going airborne, Dillingham says — many homeowners don’t think of this step until a storm is on its way.

To get a head start, set aside space now in your garage or shed to store patio furniture, yard décor and kids’ toys so you can quickly clear your property.

7. Don’t forget the insurance

Learn about the flood risks in your area, even if you don’t think you’re in a flood plain. Make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage for hurricane damage.

Don’t count on a home warranty to help with repairs after a hurricane. Most plans don’t cover any damage related to wind, rain, floods or fire. That includes roof damage from strong winds.

If you need flood or wind insurance, make sure you buy it in time. Most insurers stop issuing insurance policies once a storm is imminent, Roberts said.

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