Florida and flooding go hand-in-hand, it seems. If you live here, you are well aware of the potential for flooding in all areas of the state. And, although flooding is sometimes accompanied by hurricanes and tropical storms coming ashore, flooding can – and does – occur year-round in our state.
Water, Water Everywhere
Flooding is often thought of as the sudden onslaught of too much water, such as when a lot of rain falls in a short period of time, structures meant to contain excess water (levees, canals, dams) overflow, or when a storm surge hits as hurricanes or tropical storms make landfall. But flooding can also occur with regular, prolonged rainfall – or even when there's no rain at all.
Continuous rain, without letup, can cause the soil to become saturated and unable to hold excess water. It can also lead to flooding in areas with inadequate or malfunctioning drainage systems. Then there is the annual flooding seen with unusually high tides (called "king tides") – even on dry, sunny days! King tides affect many different coastal communities in Florida. Take a look at this interactive high-tide flooding map, by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), for an idea of just how susceptible to flooding the Florida coastline is.
Flood Insurance in Florida Is a Must-Have
Floods are one of the most common and costly natural disasters. As little as 1" of standing water in your home can cause $25,000 worth of damage, according to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
And, in Florida, flooding can happen practically anywhere. For example, many in central Florida were caught unprepared by flooding as Hurricane Ian made its way across the state in September 2022. A slow-moving Category 4 hurricane, Ian left a trail of death and destruction as it tore its way across the state.
There's no doubt about it: the risk of flooding in Florida is immense – and the floods often come with little to no warning. So, it makes sense to protect your home and personal belongings with flood insurance, regardless of your property's location in the state.
Why Get Flood Insurance Now?
The risk of flooding is especially high during hurricane season, which runs June 1 - November 30.
This is due to heavy rains and storm surges accompanying the storms, as well as hurricane season coinciding with Florida's usual rainy season, where it's not unheard of to experience rain every afternoon. And don’t forget Florida's flat terrain, low elevation (barely above sea level in many places), and high water table (meaning groundwater remains close to the surface, leaving little room to soak up additional water) – all of which makes hurricane season one of the riskiest times for flooding in the state.
Getting flood insurance before hurricane season begins is essential for several reasons:
Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover floods: Many homeowners mistakenly believe their standard homeowners insurance policy covers flood damage – but this is not the case. You will need separate flood coverage to protect against flood-related damages.
Flood insurance has a waiting period: Flood insurance policies typically have a 30-day waiting period from the date of purchase before the coverage becomes effective. Purchasing flood insurance before hurricane season ensures you will be protected when the season begins.
You may be required to get it: If your home is located in a high-risk area or flood zone and you have a mortgage, your lender may require you purchase flood insurance as a condition of your loan.
Frees you up to focus on other things: Getting the financial protection you need now, before hurricane season begins, can free up your time and attention to focus on other aspects of hurricane preparedness, such as creating an evacuation plan and assembling an emergency supply kit.
Protect Your Florida Home Against Flooding
Obtaining flood insurance before hurricane season is crucial to safeguarding your home and finances from potential flood-related damages. Having adequate coverage in place before the most active time of year for hurricanes and tropical storms provides peace of mind, so you can rest assured knowing you're ready for the stormy months ahead.
Hurricane season is fast approaching. Now is the time to consider a flood insurance policy. Call your agent to find out more. To become an Edison policyholder, get a quote or call us at (866) 568-8922, Option 1.
