What category was Hurricane Charley at Punta Gorda?

The National Hurricane Center reports Charley struck southwest Florida as a Category 4 hurricane on August 13, 2004, with its eye passing over Punta Gorda.

Can I buy insurance when a hurricane is coming?

Usually not. Insurers typically stop writing new coverage once a storm threatens an area, and NFIP flood policies typically take 30 days to start.

Can an insurer refuse my Charlotte County home because of roof age?

Not solely because the roof is under 15 years old. Older roofs that pass an inspection showing at least five years of remaining life are protected too.

Charlotte County

Home and auto insurance in Punta Gorda and Charlotte County

By the Florida Coverage Compare editorial team · Last updated October 31, 2026

The short answer

In August 2004, Hurricane Charley strengthened rapidly and struck Charlotte County as a Category 4, its eye passing over Punta Gorda and its eyewall devastating Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte. Many residents had expected it to hit Tampa Bay. The lesson for insurance: coverage has to be right before the forecast changes, because you can't buy it once a storm is coming.

Hurricane Charley, 2004

The National Hurricane Center reports that Charley strengthened rapidly just before reaching southwest Florida as a Category 4 hurricane on August 13, 2004. After first landfall near Cayo Costa, its eye passed over Punta Gorda, and the eyewall struck Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte. A National Weather Service assessment notes that many local residents believed the storm was headed for Tampa Bay.

Insure before the forecast

Insurers typically stop writing new policies and coverage changes in an area once a storm threatens, and NFIP flood policies usually take 30 days to start. Review your wind and flood coverage at the start of hurricane season, not when a storm appears in the forecast.

Roofs and wind credits

Wind damage to roofs was a hallmark of Charley. A current wind mitigation report documents your roof attachment and shape, which earn credits, and Florida law protects roofs under 15 years old from being refused on age alone.

Auto insurance in Punta Gorda and Charlotte

Charlotte County drivers carry Florida's minimums: $10,000 PIP and $10,000 property damage liability. Comprehensive coverage pays for wind and flood damage to your car.

Common questions in Punta Gorda and Charlotte

What category was Hurricane Charley at Punta Gorda?: The National Hurricane Center reports Charley struck southwest Florida as a Category 4 hurricane on August 13, 2004, with its eye passing over Punta Gorda.
Can I buy insurance when a hurricane is coming?: Usually not. Insurers typically stop writing new coverage once a storm threatens an area, and NFIP flood policies typically take 30 days to start.
Can an insurer refuse my Charlotte County home because of roof age?: Not solely because the roof is under 15 years old. Older roofs that pass an inspection showing at least five years of remaining life are protected too.

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General information, not insurance advice. Florida Coverage Compare is not an insurance company or agent. Confirm details with a licensed agent or the official source.