Floridians may have enjoyed a relatively quiet first half of the 2025 hurricane season, but experts warn the back half of the season could be much more active. September 10th marks the official peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, and with warm ocean waters and changing weather patterns in play, conditions are lining up for increased storm activity.
The Calm Before the Storm?
According to the Tallahassee Democrat, the Atlantic basin has seen fewer storms than average. By early September, only 6 to 7 tropical storms and 1 to 2 hurricanes have formed, which is slightly below historical averages. But history tells us that the majority of hurricane activity happens between mid-August and mid-October. That means Florida isn’t in the clear just yet.
Currently, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring a tropical wave in the Atlantic that has a high chance of developing into a tropical depression or tropical storm. Depending on its path, it could threaten parts of the Caribbean by mid-September, and potentially pose a risk to the United States East Coast after that.
Credit: Climate Prediction Center
Why the Second Half of the Season Looks More Dangerous
Meteorologists point to several factors that could make the remainder of the season more intense:
- La Niña is developing. A weak La Niña pattern is expected this fall, which typically reduces wind shear in the Caribbean and Gulf, prime conditions for stronger storms.
- Warm ocean waters. Sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean are running well above normal, providing extra fuel for tropical cyclones.
- Climatology. Historically, September and October bring some of the most destructive hurricanes to Florida and the Southeast.
Long-range forecasts now suggest a 50% chance of 1–2 United States hurricane landfalls before the season ends, and a 35% chance of a major hurricane strike on the continental United States.
What Florida Homeowners Should Do Now
With Florida “surrounded” by potential tropical storm activity through mid-September, the time to prepare is before a storm develops. Here’s what to do:
- Review your insurance policy and check your coverage limits.
- Remember: most standard hurricane policies do not cover flood damage, you need separate flood insurance, which takes 30 days to go into effect.
- Document your property’s condition now with photos and videos.
- Have an emergency kit and evacuation plan ready.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
The peak of hurricane season is here, and Floridians should take every storm threat seriously, even if it hasn’t formed yet. Filing insurance claims promptly after a storm is critical, as waiting can lead to denials or reduced payouts.
At Insurance Litigation Group (ILG), we help homeowners and business owners stand up to insurance companies that deny, delay, or underpay claims. Call us at (786) 529-0090 for a free property inspection and consultation. Our experienced property damage attorneys are here to protect your rights before, during, and after hurricane season.
