September - National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month, an initiative designed to enhance emergency readiness across the nation. Though this timing coincides with peak hurricane season as we transition from summer to autumn, emergency preparedness remains vital year-round since natural disasters strike without warning.
The financial toll of weather-related disasters continues to escalate. In 2024, the United States experienced 27 confirmed
weather and climate disasters, each causing damage exceeding $1 billion. These disasters included 17 severe storm events, 5 tropical cyclone events, 2 winter storm events, 1 drought event, 1 flooding event, 1 wildfire event. On average the United States allocates approximately $150 billion annually toward climate disaster recovery efforts.
Weather related events cause unique challenges for the construction industry with significant financial impact. Please review the natural resource guide for ASA members. FASA's guide offers guidance, including the following:
- Federal resources to consult or contact before, during and after the event
- Insights on commercial property insurance, specifically for the types of disasters it may not cover flood, hurricanes and earthquakes.
- Legal and contract considerations on projects following a disaster.
- Please visit FASA Natural Disaster guide for resources and information.