RICHMOND — In a season marked by flooding across the commonwealth, and with September through mid-October historically being Virginia’s most active hurricane period, residents can still protect themselves from catastrophic losses due to floods, according to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
The Atlantic hurricane season continues through Nov. 30, and conditions are still in place for an above-average hurricane season, according to the annual mid-season update from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service.
Floods, not winds, are the most costly consequence of hurricanes, warns DCR, which recommends that flood insurance is the best way for residents to protect their property and the lives they’ve worked hard to build, adding there’s still time to get this coverage during this hurricane season.
Here’s what Virginians need to know about flood insurance, according to DCR:
- One inch of water in an average home can cause more than $25,000 in damages.
- Standard homeowner’s and renter’s policies don’t cover flood damage.
- Renters can obtain a contents-only flood insurance policy to protect belongings.
- A new flood insurance policy can take up to 30 days to become effective.
“The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation urges everyone to understand their flood risk and take steps now to protect their property from flood damage. Anywhere it can rain, it can flood, so it’s important that Virginians have flood insurance coverage,” said Wendy Howard-Cooper, DCR director of dam safety and floodplain management programs.
“Unfortunately, many homeowners and renters don’t have flood insurance, putting them at greater risk as we experience more frequent, severe and widespread flooding. With hurricane season nearing its peak, now is a great time to take the necessary steps to be sure you are covered in case of a flood. Know your risk, protect your property and get flood insurance now.”
DCR’s Division of Dam Safety and Floodplain Management works closely with communities statewide to strengthen local floodplain ordinances and to help them comply with requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program. DCR also offers financial assistance to localities to help mitigate the effects of flooding.
Learn about buying flood insurance at FloodSmart.gov, or contact an insurance agent.
For more information, go to dcr.virginia.gov/floodawareness.