OKLAHOMA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER / From the desk of Glen Mulready
When we hear the words “storm season,” our first thoughts are typically of the springtime, when tornadoes and severe weather are common. Though we associate April, May and June with storms, we cannot let our guard down during our second storm season: the fall. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) and I want to remind you of how you can prepare and safeguard yourself and your family from our state’s perilous weather.
Our second storm season occurs from September to November. During these months, we see a return of favorable conditions for severe weather when the seasons change, as cold air from the north clashes with warm air from the south. The risks are far from minor, just last year, the National Weather Service reported 36 tornadoes in November alone.
In 2021, 34 tornadoes struck in October. These numbers highlight how intense our fall storm season can be, and why it’s dangerous to assume severe weather is only a springtime threat.
Before storms strike this season:
• Create and practice a severe weather safety plan with your family. It should include what to do and where to go during an emergency.
• Pack a go-bag with supplies you need following a disaster, such as insurance policies, important documents, cash, medications, food, water, a battery-powered radio, and clothing. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has a helpful list of items to include.
• Ensure you have multiple ways of receiving emergency alerts, such as NOAA Weather Radio, Wireless Emergency Alerts, smartphone apps, or TV. Learn more about alerts and how to get them at gov/alerts.
• Clean your storm shelter in advance so you can safely and comfortably take cover.
• Review your homeowners insurance policy and make sure it’s up to date. Know your coverage limits and the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost. Pay close attention to your deductibles, as wind and hail can have separate, percentage-based deductibles.
• Update your home inventory. Take pictures and videos of your belongings, write down serial numbers and item values, and store them all digitally. You can download the NAIC’s home inventory app or OID’s Home Inventory Checklist to help you. Having this information readily available can speed up claims.
I also want to remind homeowners about the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program. If you live in one of the eligible ZIP codes and meet the requirements, you may qualify for a grant up to $10,000 to upgrade your roof to a FORTIFIED roof, designed to better protect your home from severe weather. This upgrade will also lower your homeowners insurance costs. Learn more at oid.ok.gov/okready.
Oklahomans are no strangers to severe weather, but we must stay prepared because this threat persists year-round. To learn more about preparing for severe weather, visit oid.ok.gov/get-ready. OID is here to help. If you have questions about your insurance policies or need assistance, please call us at 800-522-0071.
