Delaware Urges Residents to Prepare for Tropical Storm Isaias

As Tropical Storm Isaias approaches Delaware, residents are urged to prepare for dangerous winds of more than 55 miles per hour and up to six inches of rain. Storm surges, localized flooding, tree damage, power outages and other threats to life and property are possible, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

The storm is expected to hit Delaware Tuesday.

“As models continue to show Delaware in the path of this storm, home and business owners should take steps to reduce property damage and stay safe,” said Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro in a press release issued by his office. “Secure any outdoor items or furniture that could cause damage when windy conditions occur, charge your cellphones, gather emergency supplies, and make a plan about where you can take shelter away from windows at the peak of the storm. Keep in mind that roads may become difficult to navigate due to debris and tree damage, and never drive through a flooded area.”

Potential storm impacts include damage to porches, carports and other awnings, as well as roofing and siding, with impacts on mobile homes being more significant, the press release stated. NWS said it expects uprooted or snapped trees in addition to flooding, causing impassable roadways and power outages in some places. Storm surges are likely, and tornadoes are possible.

In advance of storms, the Delaware Department of Insurance is urging residents to locate important documents, including homeowners and auto insurance policies and company contact information, as well as complete a home inventory. If a property is damaged by Tropical Storm Isaias, the homeowner should contact their insurer before they clean up or make repairs, as well as photograph all damage, the release stated.

After speaking with their insurer and photographing damage, homeowners should take action to prevent further damage by covering broken windows, damaged walls or leaking roofs, but they should not make permanent repairs, the release explained, as the insurance company should inspect the property and estimate the cost of permanent repairs.

Hurricane season lasts into the fall, and the Delaware Department of Insurance said in the release that residents should make plans and take precautions now to reduce future risks, including exploring flood insurance. More than 20 percent of flood insurance claims are for properties outside of high-risk areas. Flood insurance policies typically take 30 days to go into effect, according to the release.

Source: Delaware Department of Insurance

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Windstorm Flood Hurricane Delaware