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For immediate release
Florida Press Office: 904-806-7813,Ìýmarkf@iii.org

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SAINT JOHNS, Fla., Nov. 9, 2020Ìý–ÌýAfter making landfall in the Florida Keys late on Sunday, Nov. 8 as a strong tropical storm, Floridians should remain prepared for Eta’s second landfall along the state’s Gulf Coast later this week, according to theÌýÌý(Triple-I).

TheÌýÌýforecasts Eta’s ongoing impacts in Florida will include damaging winds, torrential rainfall, life-threatening flash flooding, isolated tornadoes and widespread power outages. The storm’s 310-mile wind field covers half the state. In addition to Florida, the NHC says the system also could impact portions of Alabama and Georgia as it moves northward in the Gulf of Mexico.

In what has become one of the most active Atlantic hurricane seasons on record with 28 named storms (tying the 2005 season), Eta is the 12th named storm to make a U.S. landfall this year and the first one in Florida. Prior to Eta, 2020’s landfalling storms included Hurricanes Hanna, Isaias, Laura, Sally, Delta and Zeta as well as Tropical Storms Bertha, Beta, Cristobal, Fay and Marco.

Damage caused by tropical cyclones are covered under different insurance policies, according to the Triple-I.Ìý

Wind-caused property damage is covered under standard homeowners, renters and business insurance policies. Renters’ insurance covers a renter’s possessions while the landlord insures the structure.

Property damage to a home, a renter’s possessions, and a business – resulting from a flood – is generally covered underÌýÌý(NFIP) policies, if the homeowner, renter or business has purchased one. Several private insurers also offer flood insurance.

Private-passenger vehicles damaged or destroyed by either wind or flooding areÌýÌýof an auto insurance policy. Nearly 80 percent of U.S. drivers choose to purchase comprehensive coverage.

Through itsÌýÌýand the organization’s other educational materials, the Triple-I offers the following preparedness tips for Florida, Alabama and Georgia residents who may be impacted by Eta:

• ReviewÌýyour evacuation planÌýand, if you have a pet,Ìýyour pet's evacuation plan
• Make sure your hurricane kit includes a minimum seven-day supply of non-perishable food and drinking water (one gallon per person, per day) for all family members and pets, as well as a one-week supply of medications for everyone in your household. Also include COVID-19 safety supplies such as two face coverings per person and hand sanitizer
• Write down the name and phone number of your insurer and insurance professionalÌýand keep this information either in your wallet or purse
• Purchase emergency supplies, such as batteries and flashlights, and a first aid kit
• Prepare your yardÌýby removing all outdoor furniture, lawn items, planters and other materials that could become airborne in high winds
• Fill your car's gasoline tankÌýbecause long gas lines and fuel shortages often follow in areas impacted by a tropical cycloneÌý

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The Triple-I has a full library of educational videos on itsÌý. Information about Triple-I mobile apps can be foundÌý.