Tornado and severe storm preparedness

March 10, 2026 Homeowner

Before the storm

Did you know tornadoes and severe thunderstorms now account for tens of billions of dollars in insured losses each year as severe convective storms have become one of the leading drivers of U.S. catastrophe costs on average the National Weather Service issues thousands of watches and warnings annually highlighting just how common and dangerous these events have become.

Are you prepared for severe storms and tornadoes?

Conduct a yearly insurance review to ensure upgrades, renovations or new purchases are reflected in your coverage
Take a home inventory so you can quickly report losses and verify your belongings
Understand your coverage since certain valuables may need special endorsements and you may also want to add sewer backup or other protections

During the storm

If you are outside or in a mobile home:

If there is a tornado warning, seek shelter inside a sturdy building, preferably with a basement
If no shelter is available lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area
Cover your head and neck with your arms

If you are driving:

Do not try to outrun a tornado and instead drive to a sturdy structure if possible
Do not seek shelter under an overpass

If you are in a house:

Seek shelter in an interior part of the basement
If there is no basement go to an inside room without windows on the lowest floor such as a hallway bathroom or closet
Protect yourself from flying debris with pillows blankets or cushions

After the storm

Secure your property from further damage or theft
Contact your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible to report damage
Inventory losses and photograph damage then save receipts for your adjuster
Keep detailed records of lost business activity and extra expenses caused by the interruption
Ask your agent if your policy covers additional living expenses when your home is uninhabitable
Be alert for contractor fraud and verify liability and workers compensation coverage before signing any contracts

Staying prepared before, during and after severe weather is one of the most effective ways to protect your home family and your peace of mind. With storms growing more frequent and costly, staying aware of your coverage keeping your property ready and following safety guidance can make all the difference when minutes matter. Acting now helps ensure that when the next storm approaches you are ready to respond confidently and safely.

Armed Forces Insurance: your trusted home insurance advisor

Armed Forces Insurance has been a trusted advisor to American armed forces service members and veterans for more than 135 years. We’re not a giant corporate skyscraper full of slick insurance executives. We’re a small company headquartered just down the road from Fort Leavenworth in Kansas. We know each other, and our customers know us. If you’re looking for someone you can trust to shoot you straight and help you protect your home and property, check out our homeowner insurance page.