With climate change, we are starting to see an increase in active and severe weather, which leads to larger amounts of rainfall. An increase in rainfall means an increase in flood risks.
Flooding can happen at any time and anywhere, not just in the higher risk areas. The best way to protect our properties from repair costs due to water damage is with flood insurance. But there are other ways as well, and one of these ways is to know the warning signs of a flood before they happen so we can prepare our properties for a potential flood.
So how do we know when flooding will happen? By keeping a watch on the weather network when we know a major storm is coming.
There are three levels of flooding, according to The National Weather Service.
Minor: Little to no property damage can occur in this stage, but there are a few things to look out for, such as water on roads, making gravel roads unsafe to travel, and lower level villages are evacuated for safe measures.
During these floods, A flood advisory is issued by the National Weather Service.
Moderate: The higher risk for property damage is most likely to occur during these types of floods, and the National Weather Service issues a flood warning. Evacuations are more than likely to happen during major flooding.
Major: Extensive property damage will happen to many homes and properties. Multiple homes will have foundation damages and even be lifted from them. In cases like these, the National Guard will be called to help with evacuations.
For those living near any body of water, you should keep an eye on the water levels. Suppose you see the water level starting to rise. In that case, you should begin to prepare your home, such as boarding up any basement windows, elevating any electronics and appliances, putting away valuables, and if needed, getting ready to evacuate.
But it's not just rain that causes flooding. Extensive amounts of snowfall can also lead to rising water levels. Large blocks of ice and early melting snow can cause water to go to places it shouldn't.
Regardless of the severity and flood zone, you live in. It's always essential to have flood insurance as your regular insurance will not cover damages related to flooding.
Holt Flood Insurance is here to help with all of your flood insurance needs, such as finding an insurance rate that works for you, understanding the importance of flood insurance, what flood zones mean, and more.
With over 30 years of experience in the flood insurance business, there are no questions that we cannot answer.
For more information, visit our website or give us a call at 1(540)809-1415. Contact Holt Flood Insurance today.