The first major hurricane of the 2011 season, Irene, has already been pummeling its way through the Caribbean and is now headed for the East Coast of the United States. If it stays on course, it will be the first hurricane to hit New York City and the Northeast since Hurricane Bob in 1991, and the first hurricane to hit the country since 2008.

To assist those who might get caught in the storm, Travel Guard North America has announced that it will provide free emergency travel and medical assistance to all U.S. and Canadian travelers impacted by Hurricane Irene, even those who had not purchased travel insurance policies. Services include flight rebooking, hotel booking, emergency cash coordination and message relay, as well as emergency medical assistance including referrals, and access to air ambulance and medical providers.

Travelers and their families seeking Travel Guard’s assistance services can reach the company directly by calling (866) 644-6811. Free assistance will continue to be offered so long as the storm is still classified as a hurricane, said a company spokesperson. The company also offered free services to all travelers last year during Hurricane Earl.

Typically, for hurricane-related losses to be covered, travel insurance must be purchased before a hurricane is named, said Carol Mueller, vice president, Travel Guard. Once a warning is issued, however, losses resulting from a named hurricane on, before or fewer than 14 days after the effective date of coverage are excluded.

Though Hurricane Irene is the first Atlantic hurricane of the season, it may not be the last. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) hurricane outlook for 2011 indicates an above-normal Atlantic season, which runs through November 30.

“We’ve had a few calm hurricane seasons, which can lead to complacency when it comes to travel planning,” said Mueller. “Hurricane Irene is a good reminder that major travel disruptions can arise quickly during hurricanes and other severe weather situations, so it’s important to be prepared. A travel insurance plan is one of the best ways for travelers to maintain confidence about their travel plans.”

Travelers also should keep in mind that even if their final destination is not affected by a hurricane, they may still experience trip disruptions due to hurricane-related airline delays and cancellations.

For more information about Travel Guard, visit www.travelguard.com or call (800) 826-1300.

Photo: Satellite image from NASA/U.S. Government

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