Now that we are in the tropical storm season, it’s important to make sure that people in coastal areas are prepared for the potential devastation of a hurricane or other disaster occurring and affecting their business. They could lose records, electricity, internet, or the building itself. And it does not need to be a business right on the coast either, since we know damaging winds can occur far inland and flooding can affect many places. Up to 60 percent of small businesses that close due to natural disasters never reopen, so preparation is key. This 5-minute video provides a look at one small community in coastal Alabama and how Hurricane Katrina affected them. Farms also need to prepare for natural disasters, since being able to provide documentation is key to getting insurance reimbursement for losses.

The flooded streets of New Orleans, Sept. 4, 2005.