07 Apr Impacted by a Tornado or Severe Storm — What’s Next?

The immediate aftermath of a tornado can be overwhelming and knowing where to turn is difficult. The following guidance outlines some need-to-know information to help your business navigate recovery.

Insurance Tips

1. Prioritize Safety and Documentation

• Check for hazards: Before re-entering the property, confirm it’s safe (no gas leaks, structural damage, etc.).
• Document everything: Take detailed photos/videos of the damage from multiple angles. Make a list of damaged items.
• Save receipts: Any cleanup, repair, or temporary relocation costs should be tracked for insurance or disaster aid.

2. Contact Your Insurance Provider ASAP

• File a claim immediately—most policies require prompt notification.
• Ask for a claims adjuster visit and keep all communication in writing when possible.
• Clarify your coverage: does it include business interruption insurance? (This could cover lost income.)

3. Apply for Federal and State Assistance

• FEMA: If you’re in a federally declared disaster area, apply for aid through disasterassistance.gov.
• SBA Disaster Loans: The Small Business Administration offers low-interest loans to repair or replace:
  • Real estate
  • Equipment
  • Inventory
  • Business interruption losses
• Local resources: Your city or state might have grant programs or tax relief.

4. Communicate with Customers and Vendors

• Post updates on social media, Google Business, and your website about:
  • Temporary closures
  • New location (if applicable)
  • How customers can support you (e.g., online orders, gift cards)
• Be honest but positive—people want to support you after a disaster.

5. Cleanup and Rebuild Strategically

• Hire reputable contractors—watch out for “storm chasers” (scammers).
• Consider upgrades: If you’re rebuilding anyway, it might be time to improve insulation, layout, or even tornado resistance.

6. Reassess and Prepare for the Future

• Disaster plan: Update or create a business continuity plan, including cloud-based backups of:
  • Customer files
  • Financial records
  • Insurance policies
• Emergency savings: If possible, build a cash cushion once back on your feet.
• Consider investing in portable business solutions (like mobile POS, cloud services, or a generator).

7. Ask for Help (and Accept It)

• Local chambers of commerce and small business networks often offer free support.
• Crowdfunding platforms (e.g., GoFundMe) can be surprisingly effective when paired with a heartfelt story and local media coverage.

Additional Resources:

Weather Alerts

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio: https://www.weather.gov/nwr
• National Weather Service (Understanding Tornado Alerts): https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado-ww

Disaster Assistance Recovery Resources

• American Red Cross: 1-800-733-2767 or https://www.redcross.org/find-your-local-chapter.html
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): 1-800-621-3362 or https://www.fema.gov/
• Salvation Army: 1-800-725-2769 or https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/
• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/disaster-distress-helpline

Knowing where to go for help and what to tackle in the aftermath of a tornado can be challenging. Barrow Group/Hilb Group can guide you through recovery actions, streamline the insurance process, and help you regain some normalcy.

Contact us today to find out more.