Debby Causes Severe Flooding in the Carolinas
Tropical Storm Debby has brought heavy rainfall to southeast North Carolina and eastern South Carolina, leading to significant flooding. The storm made a second landfall just north of Charleston, causing concern for residents as it moved slowly across the region. According to the National Weather Service, the Carolinas, along with the East Coast, are expected to experience heavy rain through the end of the week, posing a major flooding threat, especially in North Carolina and Virginia.
Tornadoes and Flooding Impact Communities
As Debby moved inland, a tornado was reported east of Raleigh, North Carolina, damaging at least 10 homes in Wilson County. Flooding was so severe that parts of Interstate 95 near Fayetteville, North Carolina, were closed. In South Carolina, residents near the second landfall location were left cleaning several inches of water from their homes. In Georgia, four dams were breached in Bulloch County, though fortunately, no casualties were reported.
Florida Takes Action After Debby’s First Landfall
Debby initially made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday. In response to the storm’s impact, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, issued an emergency order on Wednesday. The order extends the time property owners have to cancel a contract with public claims adjusters from 10 to 30 days. Additionally, it mandates that public adjusters must respond to policyholders within 7 days and requires all adjusters to properly identify themselves before signing any contracts.
Protecting Floridians from Fraudulent Claims Representatives
CFO Patronis emphasized the importance of protecting Floridians from fraudulent claims representatives who often exploit storm victims. He warned that these individuals, who sometimes give legitimate adjusters a bad reputation, are only interested in making quick money off vulnerable people. The new order aims to safeguard homeowners from such practices, ensuring they receive fair treatment during the claims process.
If your property has been damaged by a storm like Debby, it’s crucial to work with a trusted claims adjuster. At Preferred Claim Solutions, we prioritize your needs, offering reliable guidance throughout the claims process. Our experienced team is here to help you get the most from your insurance coverage. Visit Preferred Claim Solutions today to learn more and take the first step toward recovering from disaster.