Estimates vary as to exactly how many hurricanes have made landfall in South Florida and the Keys, but the following includes a look at the top South Florida hurricanes in our history.
Great Miami Hurricane of 1926
This Category 4 hurricane ended the economic boom in South Florida in the 1920’s. Had it happened in current times, damages would have been approximated at $90 billion. The number of deaths is uncertain due to the transient population in Southeastern Florida during that time, but more than 800 people were reported missing. 373 deaths and 6,381 injuries were a result of the hurricane according to a Red Cross Report and every building in downtown Miami was damaged or destroyed.
Florida Keys Labor Day Hurricane 1935
As the most intense hurricane of record to hit the United States, this Category 5 hurricane was responsible for 408 deaths in the Florida Keys and damage was estimated at $6 million.
Hurricane Andrew 1992
Hurricane Andrew was responsible for 23 deaths in the United States. It caused $25.5 billion in damage to South Florida, mostly due to high winds as a Category 4 storm. In fact, its peak winds were never measured, as it destroyed the equipment meant to do so.
Hurricane Charley 2004
Charley was a very small Category 4 hurricane which landed in southwest Florida. Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte were devastated by the violent winds and tornadoes. It was the second costliest storm, estimated at near $15 billion in damages and resulting in 10 deaths in the U.S.
Hurricane Frances 2004
Frances created a storm surge of nearly 6 feet when it landed on Florida’s east coast as a Category 2 and caused heavy rains, flooding and tornadoes. Eight deaths were reported and damage was estimated to be near $8.9 billion.
Hurricane Katrina 2005
Katrina was the costliest U.S. hurricane in history. Seven deaths occurred in South Florida, which was only a small fraction of the 1200 total fatalities from this storm. High winds and water damaged both Miami-Dade and Broward counties with up to 14 inches of rain.
Hurricane Wilma 2005
There were 5 deaths due to Wilma in Florida with an estimated damage of $16.8 billion in southern Florida alone.
With these reminders of the damages that can occur from even a small hurricane, high winds, or heavy rainfall and flooding, you should make it a priority to consider whether you have adequate hurricane insurance coverage. A knowledgeable insurance agent can help guide you with the correct flood insurance policy, hurricane insurance policy and wind insurance policy. Even if you rent, your agent can help you with a renter’s insurance policy to protect you from losses in the event of a major storm.
Remember, hurricane season starts June 1st in South Florida and you won’t want to wait until it’s too late to obtain your hurricane insurance policy.
For additional help with your flood, hurricane and wind insurance policy needs contact Pettineo Insurance Agency today at (954) 493-9424 or visit www.pettineo.com for a free quote.
Pettineo Insurance Agency Inc. provides flood, hurricane and wind insurance coverage in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, North Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Tamarac, Plantation, Lighthouse Point and all of Florida. As an independent agent we represent many top rated companies in both the personal and commercial lines. We place your policy with the company offering the best coverage at a reasonable price. We offer a complete line of personal, commercial, life and health insurance products, designed exclusively for your insurance needs. Serving South Florida for almost 30 years, Pettineo Insurance offers the highly personalized service and stability that you should expect from your insurance agent.
