Wild Weather
The winter of 2021 is already historic, with the majority of the U.S. seeing the coldest (and iciest) weather in memory, including in areas not accustomed to extreme cold conditions. Winter and ice storm advisories stretch from the Gulf Coast up to New England, across the Midwest and impact the Pacific Northwest. Deep freezes and dangerously low temperatures have triggered rotating blackouts, leaving four million people without power at a time.
One of the hallmarks of climate change and global warming is these wild swings in temperature, precipitation, and the number of severe storms. Judge Lina Hidalgo of Harris County, Texas said, “We’re seeing, basically, the winter version of Hurricane Harvey.”
Global Warming’s Impact on Storms
Devastating hurricanes, torrential floods, crippling tornadoes, and even severe winter storms are extreme weather phenomena that result from global warming, and they can cause untold, deadly damage along with major property destruction.
Planet Earth’s climate is changing and ocean water temperature is warming. This change is leading to increased intensity of tropical storms and property damage. The latest research shows the trend is likely to continue as long as the climate continues to warm.
Hurricanes will continue to be one of the most destructive weather events on the planet. In particular, hurricanes are retaining far more of their strength when they hit land because of global warming. The warmer the water temperatures, the more heat energy is available and the higher the potential for tropical cyclones to develop. The warmer the air is, the more moisture it can hold and the more rain it produces. It’s a recipe for property damage disasters.
2020 had a record-breaking hurricane season. The first predictions for the 2021 hurricane season courtesy of Colorado State University reveal that 2021 is likely to be another active year. The rationale? The Pacific Ocean’s phase is currently in a moderate La Niña pattern, which typically allows for more favorable conditions for tropical storms and hurricanes.
Benefits of Hiring a Hurricane Insurance Claims Lawyer
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) has released the final 2020 update to its Billion-dollar disaster report, officially confirming that there were 22 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters across the U.S., shattering previous annual records. The 22 events – including tropical cyclones and other severe storms – cost the nation a combined $95 billion in damages.
The danger to property when we’re talking about hurricanes and tornadoes is serious. With a combination of stronger storms, sea levels rising, increased coastal populations, and infrastructure exposure, damages and disruptions will continue to mount.
Florida property owners rely on insurance to protect them and cover losses caused by hurricanes and other storms. But it is necessary to hire a hurricane insurance lawyer to maximize coverage and help process insurance claims, especially Large Loss ones involving multi-unit dwellings.
After suffering hurricane or storm damage, property owners may choose to file a claim with their insurance to seek coverage for damage. However, insurance companies’ first line of defense is to delay, deny or offer an amount that is insufficient to compensate a property owner for damage. That is why you need the help of a knowledgeable hurricane insurance claims lawyer.
Our lawyers have extensive experience interpreting the language within property insurance policies and fighting for claims payouts that are fair for property owners who have sustained property damage in the aftermath of a hurricane or storm. Speak to a member of our law firm today. Call 813-258-4998 or email service@corlessbarfield.com.