Flooding and Storm Surge in Florida

Storm Surge and flooding present some of the most damaging effects of a hurricane. Storm surge not only effects the coastline but in some instances the inland as well.

It is important to know that when it comes to flooding or storm surge your home is not covered by your homeowners insurance policy. To obtain coverage for this exposure you must purchase a separate flood insurance policy.

There is no waiting to the last second when it comes to flood insurance. Flood insurance is typically subject to a 30-day waiting period which means it will not cover any losses incurred within 30 days after the policy effective date. This means do not wait until a hurricane is in the area to purchase a Florida flood insurance policy. At that point it will be too late and you will not have coverage for that storm.

Storm surge in Florida

Storm surge is the result of high water levels combined with intense wind. A storm surge that occurs, during high tide especially, can have a devastating impact. There are many factors that contribute to the impact and extent of storm surge including the storm’s size and speed, as well as the shape and makeup of the coastline. In many instance storm surge can be one of the most devastating effects of a hurricane or tropical storm. An example includes Hurricane Ike that struck Texas and Louisiana in 2008. The storm surge reportedly reached as far as 30 miles inland in many regions.

Flooding

Flooding can happen whether you live near the coast or not. Floods can happen anywhere, at any given time. According to FEMA, floods are the most common and costly natural disaster. In some cases flooding can be the result of tropical storm or hurricane but in most cases it is often caused by torrential rain or weather stalling over a given area. Insufficient drainage and property development contribute to the likelihood of flooding.

It only takes one inch of flooding for your home to suffer significant damage. To speak with an agent at Gould in regard to your flood insurance needs give us a call today at (386) 734 3970.