Hurricanes risk in Pennsylvania

Hurricane risk in Pennsylvania: what to expect

Pennsylvania is located in the Northeast region and does not have an ocean coastline, but that does not make it immune to hurricanes. According to the NOAA National Hurricane Center, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity typically from mid-August to late October. During this period, hurricanes and tropical storms that make landfall along the Gulf Coast or Mid-Atlantic can track northward and affect Pennsylvania.

The state's primary hurricane-related threats are heavy rainfall, inland flooding, and flash flooding. Wind damage and power outages are also possible. The southeastern and eastern parts of Pennsylvania—including the Philadelphia metropolitan area, the Delaware Valley, and the Lehigh Valley—are generally more exposed to coastal storms and their remnants. However, storms can affect any part of the state, as demonstrated by historic events like Hurricane Agnes in 1972, which caused devastating flooding across Pennsylvania.

Coastal storm surge can also affect the tidal Delaware River and its tributaries, potentially impacting low-lying communities near Philadelphia. Lake Erie's shoreline can experience strong winds and wave action from severe storms. The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) works with local partners to coordinate response and recovery efforts when these events occur.

Overall, Pennsylvania's hurricane risk is rated 2 out of 5, indicating a relatively low likelihood of direct hurricane landfall but a real potential for significant impacts from remnants and coastal storms. Residents should not underestimate the threat of flooding, which is the most common and costly hazard associated with hurricanes in the state.

How hurricanes affect homes in Pennsylvania

When hurricanes or their remnants reach Pennsylvania, they can cause several types of property damage:

• Flooding: Heavy rain can overwhelm streams, rivers, and drainage systems, leading to flash flooding and river flooding. Basements, first floors, and crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable. Just a few inches of water can cause costly damage to flooring, drywall, electrical systems, and belongings.
• Wind damage: Strong winds can tear off roof shingles, break windows, and send debris flying into homes. Falling trees and limbs are a major cause of damage and power outages.
• Storm surge: In tidal areas along the Delaware River, storm surge can push water into low-lying neighborhoods, causing saltwater flooding and erosion.
• Power outages: Downed power lines and damaged infrastructure can leave homes without electricity for days, potentially leading to food spoilage and unsafe conditions.

From an insurance perspective, it is critical to understand that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. According to FEMA, flooding can happen anywhere, not just in high-risk zones, and there is usually a 30-day waiting period before a new flood policy takes effect. Wind damage may be covered by homeowners insurance, but policies often have separate wind/hail deductibles that can be higher than standard deductibles. Review your policy carefully and consider flood insurance even if you are not in a designated floodplain.

After a storm, document all damage with photos and contact your insurance company promptly. PEMA and local emergency management agencies can provide guidance on recovery resources.

How to prepare your home for hurricane season

Taking steps before a storm arrives can reduce damage and keep your family safe. The following measures are recommended by Ready.gov, FEMA, and PEMA:

1. Know your risk: Check FEMA flood maps and PEMA's website to understand your property's flood risk. Remember that flooding can occur outside high-risk zones.
2. Purchase flood insurance: Don't wait until a storm is forecast—flood insurance typically has a 30-day waiting period.
3. Reinforce your roof and windows: Install storm shutters or plywood covers for windows. Ensure roof shingles are secure and consider reinforcing garage doors.
4. Maintain drainage: Clear gutters, downspouts, and storm drains. Ensure water flows away from your foundation.
5. Trim trees and shrubs: Remove dead branches and limbs that could fall on your home during high winds.
6. Create an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a NOAA weather radio, and important documents. Ready.gov offers a full checklist.
7. Make a family communication plan: Decide how you will contact each other and where you will meet if separated.
8. Prepare for power outages: Consider a generator, but never run it indoors. Have backup batteries and charge devices in advance.
9. Document your property: Take photos or videos of your home and belongings for insurance claims.
10. Stay informed: Monitor NOAA forecasts and local alerts. Follow instructions from PEMA and local officials, including evacuation orders.

Frequently asked questions

Can Pennsylvania get hit directly by a hurricane?

Direct landfall of a hurricane in Pennsylvania is rare because the state has no ocean coastline. However, hurricanes and tropical storms can still bring severe impacts. According to NOAA, storms that make landfall along the Mid-Atlantic or Gulf Coast can track northward and affect Pennsylvania with heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds. The remnants of hurricanes have caused some of the worst flooding in the state's history.

Is flood damage from hurricanes covered by homeowners insurance?

No, standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. FEMA recommends purchasing flood insurance even if you are not in a high-risk flood zone, as flooding can happen anywhere. There is typically a 30-day waiting period before a new flood policy takes effect.

What should I do if a hurricane is forecast to affect my area?

Monitor forecasts from the National Hurricane Center and local officials. Follow evacuation orders if issued. Secure your home by closing storm shutters, bringing in outdoor furniture, and turning off utilities if advised. Have your emergency kit ready and charge devices. Ready.gov provides a detailed checklist for hurricane preparedness. After the storm, avoid floodwaters and report damage to your local emergency management agency.

Official resources

• Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA)
• NOAA National Hurricane Center
• Ready.gov – Hurricanes
• FEMA Hurricane Preparedness