Florida flooding is a significant concern for homeowners. With Florida’s unique climate defined by its wet and dry seasons, the risk of flooding is plentiful throughout the year. Floods can result from various factors, such as heavy rainfall, storm surges, and the state’s many low-lying areas. This makes Florida particularly susceptible to damage from natural events.
For those facing this threat, it’s important to:
Taking action to insure against flooding can save homeowners significant financial loss and stress.
Florida’s geography and climate make it particularly vulnerable to flooding. The state is home to many low-lying areas, which are prone to collecting water during heavy rains and storm surges. These regions, especially in southeast Florida and along the coast, are at a heightened risk of flooding.
Florida’s elevation is generally low, with certain areas just a few feet above sea level. This makes them susceptible to flooding, especially during periods of excessive rainfall. The Florida Keys, for example, are entirely located within a floodplain, with base flood elevations ranging from 6 to 17 feet above Mean Sea Level (MSL).
During hurricanes and tropical storms, strong winds push seawater onto the land, causing storm surges. This is a major cause of coastal flooding.
Florida experiences a defined rainy season from May through October. Excessive rain can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to widespread flooding. In June 2017, southeastern Florida saw over 19 inches of rain in just seven days, highlighting the potential for heavy rainfall to cause significant flooding.
Flash floods can occur with little warning and are caused by sudden heavy rainfall. These floods are dangerous because they can lift debris and damage structures quickly. In August 2017, Fort Myers experienced 16.7 inches of rain over a weekend, significantly more than usual, leading to rapid flash flooding.
Understanding these elements of Florida flooding can help residents prepare and protect their homes and families. Whether it’s by recognizing the risks of low-lying areas, preparing for storm surges, or being alert to heavy rainfall forecasts, awareness is key to minimizing the impact of floods.
Flooding is a common and serious threat in Florida, but flood damage is not covered by standard homeowner’s insurance. This means that if your home is damaged by a flood, you could be left with substantial repair costs unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.
To address this gap, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers federally backed flood insurance to property owners. If your community participates in the NFIP, you can purchase flood insurance through this program. It provides two types of coverage:
Understanding your flood risk is crucial when considering flood insurance. You can assess your home’s flood risk by reviewing FEMA’s flood zone maps, which categorize areas based on their likelihood of flooding. Knowing whether your home is in a high-risk area can help you decide if flood insurance is necessary, as nearly 25% of flood claims come from outside flood zones.
By evaluating your risk and securing appropriate coverage, you can protect yourself from the financial burdens that floods can bring. Being informed and prepared is the best way to safeguard your home and peace of mind.
In Florida, most flood insurance policies are provided through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP partners with many private insurance companies to offer coverage. If your community participates in the NFIP, you can purchase a policy through any of these insurers.
For those who prefer not to go through the NFIP, some private insurance companies also offer flood insurance options. It’s worth checking asking your agent to explore these alternatives and find a plan that suits your needs. Or call Shepherd Insurance to get a quote.
Why doesn’t the flood zone solely determine the premium anymore?
Under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0, flood zones still play a role in determining whether flood insurance is required; however, they are no longer the primary factor in calculating premiums. Instead, premiums are now based on a broader and more detailed analysis of each property’s specific risk. This includes considerations such as the property’s replacement cost, elevation, distance to water sources, and other individual risk characteristics. The goal of this change is to create a more equitable and accurate pricing system, which may result in lower premiums for some policyholders and higher premiums for others, depending on their property’s actual flood risk.
Are FEMA flood maps still important?
Yes. Although they are no longer the sole determinant of flood insurance premiums, FEMA flood maps remain critical for regulatory purposes. Lenders use these maps to identify whether a property lies within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), which determines whether flood insurance is mandatory for a federally backed mortgage.
What is a LOMR (Letter of Map Revision)?
A Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) is an official document issued by FEMA that amends the current Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). It reflects changes to flood hazard information such as base flood elevations, regulatory floodways, or boundaries of the SFHA. LOMRs are typically requested by communities or property owners to correct map inaccuracies or reflect changes due to new development or improved flood control measures.
How long does it take to process a LOMR?
The review and processing time for a LOMR is typically between 60 and 90 days after submission.
How do I apply for a LOMR?
If your property involves new construction, begin by checking with the builder. Otherwise, contact your city’s floodplain management or public works department for detailed instructions. Please note that insurance agents are not responsible for submitting or managing LOMR requests and are not involved in the process.
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