CFO Patronis: Experts Predict 21 Storms During 2022 Hurricane Season, Prepare NOW

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis encourages Floridians to start preparing for hurricane season now as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) predicts an above-normal hurricane season. NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which extends from June 1 to November 30, forecasts a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms, of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes, including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). The CFO is also highlighting his PrepareFL.com website as a one-stop-shop for hurricane preparedness information and resources.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “With NOAA predicting the threat of up to 6 major hurricanes during the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Floridians must prepare immediately. Now is the time to ensure your home and business are adequately covered and you and your family have a disaster plan in place before a storm strikes. Following storms, my office stands ready to assist homeowners who have storm damage and help them navigate the insurance claims process. As it is Contractor Fraud Awareness Week, consumers should also beware of fraudsters, including unscrupulous contractors offering to make cash only repairs or forcing you to sign over your insurance claim after a storm. Knowing the warnings signs of a post-storm scam is the best way to help you avoid becoming a victim. Visit PrepareFL.com for important storm resources and information to help you weather the storm and recover quickly. After a storm, if you feel you have been a victim of fraud, report it to my office immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com or call my Insurance Fraud Hotline at 1-800-378-0445.”

The Prepare Florida website includes:

• An Emergency Preparedness Toolkit designed to help you prepare a home inventory and organize your financial information before and after a disaster.
  
  
• A “Natural Disasters – Are You Prepared” guide to inform consumers on insurance and financial preparation in the event of a natural disaster.
  
  
• A guide to navigating the flood insurance claims process.
  
  
• Information on the Assignment of Benefits (AOB) process and how it can impact a homeowner.
  
  
• Tips on what to expect after filing a homeowners insurance claim related to a hurricane.

###

About CFO Jimmy Patronis 
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).