Share this article:
Hurricanes derive their strength from ocean temperatures, so it's typically coastal residents that bear the brunt of storm-related damage. But even those who live well inland need to be mindful that they too can be affected by Mother Nature's wrath, especially when it comes to flooding.
Flooding can be a devastating natural disaster and, unfortunately, one that is only too common. There's no good place to live to avoid floods. Any place that gets even rainfall is at risk for flood damage.
1 in 5 flood claims come from low-risk areas
History has proven this to be the case. Over the past 10 years, 8 of the 10 states that have seen the most flood disasters are inland.
Every state has seen flooding in last five years
The topography of the Earth is such that you don't necessarily have to live near a body of water to be in a high-risk flood zone. In these areas, there's a 1 in 4 chance that residents will be affected by flooding over a period of 30 years, according to FEMA statistics. And in the last five years, all 50 states have seen some degree of flooding.
The National Flood Insurance Program, an agency that runs out of FEMA, notes that most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.
The NFIP also points out that it takes only a few inches of water to cause significant damage to the home. While you might not live in an area that commonly experiences floods, the possibility of flooding exists in most locations.
The impact of flooding goes beyond simple property damage. Floods can lead to significant economic and social consequences that can last for years. If you don't already have flood insurance, now's the time to get a policy. There's a 30-day waiting period for coverage to go into effect, so the sooner you secure a policy the better.
For more information on the different plans available, speak with your local Selective agent. Or, Learn more about insurance for flooding and the steps you can take to protect your home with Selective’s Hurricane Guide or flood articles.
