Forecasters are warning of a turbulent summer ahead, with meteorologists predicting a higher-than-average hurricane season and intensifying weather conditions across the country. As storms loom, experts urge Canadian homeowners to reassess their insurance policies, particularly those related to flood and water damage.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports a 60% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Meanwhile, the Weather Network’s 2025 Summer Forecast, released in May, highlights above-normal temperatures nationwide, with extreme heat, drought, and thunderstorms anticipated. In Atlantic Canada, warmer and more humid conditions are expected, accompanied by frequent storms and an elevated risk of tropical systems reaching the region.
“As weather patterns become more extreme and flooding more severe, many homeowners will need to pay close attention to their insurance policies to make sure they are covered for what they need,” said Daniel Ivans, a licensed broker and insurance expert at Rates.ca. “Coverage for water damage is split into separate endorsements that are add-ons to standard home insurance policies.”
Ivans explained that standard home insurance policies often exclude coverage for overland flooding, sewer back-up, and groundwater infiltration - risks that are becoming more frequent amid changing weather patterns. A report from The Laker noted that overland flood insurance covers water entering through windows and doors due to overflowing rivers or heavy rain. Sewer back-up insurance protects against internal pipe or septic issues, while groundwater insurance addresses water seeping into basements.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada noted that, over the past decade, there have been more than 35 catastrophic flooding events, each causing over $30 million in insured losses. Currently, one in 10 homes across the country is deemed uninsurable due to repeated flood risk.
The broader forecast warns of heat waves and drought across Western Canada, raising wildfire and air quality concerns. Meanwhile, Eastern Canada’s warm, muggy conditions are expected to drive stronger storms. These extremes, meteorologists say, reflect a growing trend of climate volatility that carries both environmental and financial consequences.
“Floods are one of the most common insurance claims, and are also the most damaging to a home,” Ivans said. “Taking the time to understand what you are covered for and what you aren’t is worth it.”
Canadians are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and consult their insurance providers to ensure adequate protection during what could be a summer of extremes.
What steps should homeowners take to prepare for the upcoming storm season? Share your insights below.
