It’s hard to ignore the trend when you look at recent major hurricanes: every single one since 2017 has made landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida. The accompanying image tells a striking story, with a cluster of landfall points scattered from Texas to the Florida West Coast. Interestingly, the East Coast of Florida has remained untouched by these major storms.
Source: NBC2 News
Gulf Coast: The Storm Magnet
Hurricane Milton, the most recent Category 3 hurricane, made landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast, marking the 10th major hurricane to strike the Gulf region in just seven years. Milton is part of a trend that started in 2017 with Hurricane Harvey, continuing with Irma, Michael, Laura, Zeta, Ida, Ian, Idalia, Helene — all targeting this Gulf Coast region. According to meteorologists, a warmer-than-average Caribbean and La Niña conditions have fueled these powerful storms, which often form in the Caribbean and track into the Gulf.
This destructive run has brought devastation both in terms of human lives and financial costs. With a cumulative damage bill of more than $450 billion, and nearly 550 lives lost, the Gulf Coast has experienced storm fatigue.
Why Is Florida’s East Coast in the Clear?
This streak of major hurricanes has largely spared Florida’s East Coast, an anomaly when considering the state’s hurricane-prone history. Some scientists believe this is due to the positioning of storm formation areas and the prevailing atmospheric conditions, which have steered hurricanes westward into the Gulf of Mexico.
Despite this, it’s important to remember that no coastal area is immune. Hurricane Irma in 2017 was a reminder of how quickly a storm can change course and impact regions beyond the Gulf. Homeowners and businesses across Florida must stay vigilant, especially given the unpredictability of storm paths.
Preparing for the Unexpected
As this busy hurricane season is about to end November 30th, it’s essential for all Floridians, whether living on the Gulf or Atlantic coasts, to prepare for the unexpected. Often, hidden hurricane damage such as mold, water intrusion, or structural weakening can go unnoticed, only to surface long after a storm has passed. Insurance Litigation Group (ILG) is here to help identify and address these hidden damages, ensuring you’re protected heading into potentially active hurricane seasons.
How ILG Can Help You Recover After the Storm
At ILG, our experienced Florida property insurance claim attorneys and former Public Adjusters know how to help homeowners and businesses receive the compensation they deserve for hurricane-related damage. From the initial inspection to the final settlement, ILG manages all aspects of your Florida property insurance claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery. With offices across Florida, including North Miami Beach, Orlando, Pensacola, Naples, and Fort Pierce, ILG is well-positioned to assist clients statewide.
ILG offers a free property inspection for Floridians to identify all storm-related damage, assists in preparing and submitting claims, and deals directly with your insurance company on your behalf. If you have an underpaid or denied Florida homeowners insurance claim, our attorneys will fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t let damage go unaddressed — schedule your no-charge inspection today, and let us help you recover.
Although Florida’s East Coast has seen relative calm recently, the ongoing challenges faced by the Gulf Coast serve as a powerful reminder of nature’s unpredictability. It’s critical to stay prepared and protect your property for the future. Stay safe!
Source: The Weather Channel