Hurricane Delta: A Double Threat to the Gulf Coast

Hurricane Delta Approaches the Gulf Coast

Hurricane Delta is rapidly approaching the U.S. Gulf Coast, with landfall expected on the evening of October 9 along Louisiana's southwest coast. Dr. Phil Klotzbach, a research scientist at Colorado State University and a non-resident scholar at the Insurance Information Institute, provides an update on Delta in the video clip above.

Delta's Impact on the Region

The hurricane has significantly increased in size since yesterday, and a large area of the country will experience its impacts. Hurricane warnings are in effect from High Island, TX to Morgan City, LA, and storm surge warnings extend from High Island, TX to the mouth of the Pearl River. In addition to strong winds, Delta is expected to bring storm surge as high as 7 to 11 feet along the coast of central Louisiana. Rainfall totals are forecast to be from 5 to 10 inches from southwest to central Louisiana, with isolated totals of up to 15 inches.

Delta's Timing and Preparations

Delta is on track to hit the same area of Louisiana where Hurricane Laura made landfall only six weeks ago. New Orleans, which will likely miss the storm, was still preparing for the possibility of tornadoes. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency. Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves also declared a state of emergency, with forecasters saying southern Mississippi could see heavy rain and flash flooding. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has already seen a record-breaking 25 named storms, with Delta being the 25th. This season has already surpassed the previous record of 21 named storms set in 2005.

For residents in the path of Hurricane Delta, it is crucial to have a comprehensive insurance policy that covers flood damage, as standard homeowner's insurance does not typically cover flood damage. It is also advisable to review and update emergency preparedness plans, including having an evacuation route and emergency supplies.