Top 5 States Most At Risk For Natural Disaster

Fall offers some of the best outdoor weather and can also call for extreme weather concoctions — hurricane season colliding with wildfire threats. This lethal mixture makes it very difficult to plan when the next natural disaster may strike. 

With recent data from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), we now know where these disasters may be heading and how to prepare for them. Geography and geology can determine if your home is at greater risk for hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or flooding.

It’s important to know if your property is located in the states with the highest risk and determine the best coverage to meet the needs of an unforeseen natural disaster. 

Top 5 natural disaster-prone states in 2022:

1. Texas

With the lengthy Gulf Coast and vulnerability to hurricanes, Texas homes were projected to have the highest Expected Annual Losses score for 2022. Texas is at risk for wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, landslides, and floods. This state has on average 900 wildfires per year and is considered the second highest state prone to wildfires. August and September are the prime months for tropical storms that pack in destructive hurricanes. Texas has also experienced mild hurricanes and tornadoes in the northern part of the state.

2. California

Wildfires raging in California every year have caused billions in property damage. In 2020 alone, they had 11,116 structures damaged or destroyed in the fires. They also incurred around 16 FEMA-declared disasters from 2014-2018.

With wildfire season beginning to blaze, it is wise to have special precautions and plans set in place. If guests are staying at your property during the time of one, make sure your guests are well aware of the fire safety plans you have in place. Check out our blog post on wildfire planning here. 

3. Florida

Having the most extensive coastline in America and located near the Caribbean seas, it is no surprise Florida is expected to be one of the states most at risk for a natural disaster. Florida is near sea level so floods are a prevalent problem. Hurricanes come with heavy rain and drainage systems cannot keep up.  

Although these storms come out of nowhere, it is always smart to have a contingency plan for when disaster strikes. Click here to read our blog post on how to create one.

3. Oklahoma

Many different weather patterns cross over Oklahoma making them susceptible to disastrous storms. With snowstorms, ice storms, hail, tornadoes and wildfires, vacation rental property owners need to have a plan in place to protect their homes and guests from these natural disasters.

5. Washington

Washington commonly battles a few different types of natural disasters – wildfires, flooding, mudslides and earthquakes. While it is considered to be a green, lush state, anytime there are prolonged drought conditions, the possibility of raging wildfires increases.

Be Ready For Anything

Even if your vacation rental is not located in these 5 states, it is critical to have an action plan in the likelihood disaster strikes. The cost of not being adequately insured for a natural disaster leaves your property at great risk and may cost you much more in the long run. 

Your property is one of your largest assets. Don’t carry the weight of the unknown. Let us help you protect your business and mitigate potential risks. To learn more about protecting your business from the unexpected, request a free quote today from CBIZ Vacation Rental Insurance today.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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