Insurer Urges Jamaicans to Get Ready During Hurricane Preparedness Month

Prepare Now for Hurricane Season

With May being observed as Hurricane Preparedness Month, a leading insurer is urging persons to take proactive steps to protect their homes, businesses, and families ahead of the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, which officially begins on June 1.

Joseph Holness, assistant general manager, reinsurance and underwriting at JN General Insurance, stresses that early preparation can make a significant difference in mitigating the impact of hurricanes.
“We often see persons trying to secure their properties at the last minute. This leaves them vulnerable and ill-equipped to deal with the impact of a hurricane as the short window between a hurricane warning and landfall isn’t enough time to complete critical tasks like roof repairs. When there is a pending hurricane, essential supplies are likely to be sold out, and tradesmen may not be available, as many will already be preoccupied assisting others with last-minute repairs.”

Increasing Storm Intensity Demands Urgency

Mr Holness also pointed out that hurricanes are becoming increasingly intense and unpredictable, a trend partly driven by climate change.

“Just last year, Hurricane Beryl made landfall in July which is unusually early. Many persons were caught off guard which highlights why early preparation is so crucial. When individuals plan ahead, they know where to go, what steps to take, and how best to protect themselves and their families. Being prepared enhances one’s safety and helps persons recover quicker afterward,” said Mr Holness.

According to the latest forecast from Colorado State University, the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be above average, with 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes projected.

Reducing Risk Through Practical Measures

Mr Holness advised that minimising the risk of hurricane-related damage begins with being proactive and making smart, practical decisions well before a hurricane is on the radar.

“One of the most common and dangerous effects of a hurricane is flooding which can inundate homes and cause structural damage. Even a few inches of water can destroy flooring, furniture, and equipment. Taking precautionary measures prior to a hurricane, such as clearing drains and gullies, can ensure proper drainage around your property to safeguard your home and family.”

Another key aspect of hurricane preparedness, the insurance expert highlighted, is financial protection in the event of damage or loss. He pointed out that while physical preparations, such as securing property, are important, having insurance coverage is just as critical.

“When a hurricane hits, the damage can be devastating and expensive to repair. A hurricane can destroy years of investment in just a few hours. Roofs can be ripped off, homes flooded, and personal belongings lost. Without insurance, many families are left to start over from scratch, often without the means to do so. Insurance helps you recover faster and fully, without having to bear the full financial burden on your own,” Mr Holness advised.

Update Your Insurance Coverage Annually

He stressed the importance of ensuring that insurance coverage aligns with the current value of one’s home and belongings.

“Over time, the cost of rebuilding or replacing items can increase due to inflation, rising construction costs, and changes in property value. If your policy hasn’t been updated recently, you may be underinsured, meaning your coverage won’t be enough to fully recover from hurricane-related damage,” he explained.

Mr Holness noted that under insurance often leads to significant out-of-pocket expenses, a reality many homeowners only realise after experiencing a loss.

“To prevent this from happening, it’s critical to assess your insurance coverage annually and make adjustments where necessary to ensure you’re fully protected. This includes accounting for renovations, new purchases, or any increase in property value.”

Document Your Property Before the Storm

He further highlighted the importance of taking clear photos and videos of one’s home or business before a hurricane hits, noting that documenting the property’s condition in advance can be vital for supporting insurance claims.

“Capture both the interior and exterior, including the roof, windows, doors, appliances, furniture, and any valuable items. These visual records provide crucial evidence that can help substantiate your insurance claim in the event of hurricane-related damage. Having time-stamped documentation makes it easier to demonstrate the pre-storm condition of your property, which can speed up the claims process and help ensure you receive fair compensation. Store these files securely either in cloud storage or on a portable drive kept in a safe, waterproof location so they are accessible even if your devices are damaged,” he advised.