Preparing Your Business for the 2026 Hurricane Season

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season for 2026. This season is expected to bring 8 to 14 named storms, with 3 to 6 developing into hurricanes and 1 to 3 reaching major hurricane status (Category 3 or higher).

According to NOAA, the Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be below normal due to a mix of competing climate factors. El Niño is forecast to develop and strengthen during the season, which typically suppresses tropical storm and hurricane activity. However, Atlantic surface temperatures are expected to remain slightly above average, and trade winds are likely to be weaker than normal, conditions that generally favor increased storm development. As a result, these opposing influences are expected to balance each other, leading to a less active than normal season overall.

While the overall outlook suggests reduced activity, it is important to emphasize that a single significant storm can cause substantial disruption. Organizations should therefore take a proactive and comprehensive approach to hurricane preparedness, as outlined below.

Develop a Comprehensive Business Continuity Plan

• Risk Assessment: Identify vulnerabilities in your operations, supply chains, and infrastructure.

• Emergency Contacts: Maintain an updated list of essential contacts, including employees, suppliers, and emergency services.

• Communication Strategy: Establish clear protocols for disseminating information before, during, and after a storm.

• Data Backup: Ensure critical data is backed up and accessible remotely.

Secure Physical Assets

• Facility Inspection: Regularly inspect and reinforce structures, such as roofs, windows, and doors.

• Protect Equipment: Elevate essential equipment to prevent flood damage and secure outdoor items that could become projectiles.

• Backup Power: Invest in generators to maintain operations during power outages.

Safeguard Employee Well-being

• Evacuation Plans: Develop and communicate clear evacuation routes and procedures.

• Emergency Supplies: Stock emergency kits with essentials like food, water, first-aid supplies, and flashlights.

• Training: Conduct regular drills to ensure employees are prepared for emergency situations.

Review and Update Insurance Coverage

• Policy Assessment: Evaluate existing insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for potential hurricane-related damages.

• Flood Insurance: Consider obtaining separate flood insurance, as standard policies often do not cover flood damage.

• Documentation: Keep detailed records of assets and property to facilitate claims processing.

Engage with Local and Federal Resources

• Stay Informed: Monitor updates from NOAA and local emergency management agencies.

• Utilize Toolkits: Leverage resources like FEMA’s Business Toolkit for guidance on preparedness steps.

• Community Collaboration: Participate in local preparedness initiatives to strengthen community resilience.

The devastating potential of major storms is evident in recent history—over $75 billion in damages and 251 fatalities were caused by Hurricane Helene in the 2024 season, and over $48 billion in damages and 95 fatalities were caused by Hurricane Melissa in the 2025 season, according to NOAA. Taking a proactive approach allows communities and businesses to mitigate risks, safeguard lives, and ensure a more resilient response to whatever challenges the season may present.

Click here for a detailed hurricane preparedness checklist from Stephens Insurance.