As the 2024 hurricane season approaches, professionals in catastrophe management and insurance adjusters are gearing up for what is predicted to be an active few months. This blog post will guide you through the expected conditions for this year’s hurricane season, provide essential resources for storm tracking, outline how Crawford & Company is uniquely equipped to assist in these challenging circumstances and more.
2024 hurricane season outlook
Experts from leading meteorological centers are forecasting an above-average number of storms for the 2024 hurricane season. This increase is attributed to warmer ocean temperatures and favorable atmospheric conditions that help storms develop and intensify. For insurance claims adjusters and those involved in catastrophe management services, understanding these predictions is crucial for preparing to respond effectively.
What’s above average? An average season has around 14 named storms, with seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes (defined as Category 3 or higher). In 2024, they are predicting 23 named storms, with eleven hurricanes and five major hurricanes.
Top hurricane tracking tools and resources for 2024
Staying informed is critical, whether you are an independent adjuster or part of a larger catastrophe response team. Utilizing resources such as NOAA and the National Hurricane Center’s website provides real-time tracking and updates on storm developments. Additionally, mobile apps dedicated to weather updates can be invaluable tools for those in the field, ensuring that you’re always ahead of the curve.
How Crawford CAT is prepared to assist
At Crawford & Company, our Catastrophe Services department hosts industry-leading adjusters and innovative technology that ensures we’re always prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to catastrophic events. With over 1 million catastrophe claims managed and an average of 10+ years of experience per adjuster, our team is equipped to handle any challenge.
During hurricane season, our extensive roster of experienced adjusters, combined with advancements in technology and predictive analysis, enables us to deliver value to our clients whenever and wherever they need it most.
Becoming a catastrophe management insurance adjuster
For those interested in contributing to disaster response efforts, understanding what a claims adjuster does and how to become an insurance adjuster are the first steps. Obtaining a claims adjuster license typically involves completing a series of educational requirements and passing a state-administered exam.
For those looking to specialize further, becoming an independent insurance adjuster can offer the flexibility to work across state lines and handle claims from various insurers. This role is crucial during the hurricane season when the demand for experienced and efficient claims adjusters spikes dramatically.
Fun fact: how are hurricanes named?
Ever wondered how hurricanes get their names? It’s a practice that dates back to the mid-20th century, initially using a phonetic alphabet (Able, Baker, Charlie) and later transitioning to personalized names to avoid confusion during storms. Today, the World Meteorological Organization maintains and updates a list of names, which are reused every six years unless a storm is so devastating that its name is retired for sensitivity and clarity in historical records – such as Hurricane Katrina.
Hurricane names for the 2024 season
Here is the list of names designated for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season:
- Alberto
- Beryl
- Chris
- Debby
- Ernesto
- Francine
- Gordon
- Helene
- Isaac
- Joyce
- Kirk
- Leslie
- Milton
- Nadine
- Oscar
- Patty
- Rafael
- Sara
- Tony
- Valerie
- William
As we look ahead to the 2024 hurricane season, it’s clear that preparation and knowledge are our best tools. Whether you’re a seasoned insurance claims adjuster or someone interested in entering the field, now is the time to ready yourself for what may come. For those involved in catastrophe management services, remember that your role in claims adjustment and disaster response is invaluable to communities facing the impact of these natural events. Stay informed, stay prepared and stay safe.
