State Farm: Oklahoma Ranked #4 Nationwide In Wind/Hail Claims In 2013

Damage caused by wind and hail cost State Farm policyholders more than $3 billion in 2013 and  Oklahoma ranked fourth in the nation with 17,000 wind/hail claims in 2013.

While hail storms most frequently impact the Great Plains and Midwest, every state in the nation is susceptible.

Texas was first with 42,000 claims last year, followed by Illinois and Georgia with 26,000 and 25,000 claims respectively.

In a news release, State Farm offered tips on preparing your home against hail and wind damage:

• If you are indoors when a storm with large hailstones strikes, stay there. Because hail can shatter windows, close your drapes, blinds or window shades to prevent the wind from blowing broken glass inside. Stay away from skylights and doors.
• If weather conditions are prime for hail storms, pull cars, boats, RVs, lawn and patio furniture into a covered area.
• Good tree pruning can prevent many problems. Prompt removal of diseased, damaged, or dead plant parts helps reduce the possibility of future storm damage.
• When building or remodeling, consider impact resistant roofing to reduce hail damage to your home.