Insurance can mitigate losses after fires, floods

September came to a wet close, and October is starting off wet as well.  With increased rainfall and the amount of burned areas across the state, the Idaho Department of Water Resources and the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security encourage homeowners and businesses to consider purchasing flood insurance.

Areas hit by wildfires face an increased risk of flooding. Large-scale wildfires dramatically alter the terrain and ground conditions. Normally, vegetation absorbs rainfall, reducing runoff. However, wildfires leave the ground charred, barren, and unable to absorb water, creating conditions ripe for flash floods and mudflow. Flooding after fire is often more severe, as debris and ash left from the fire can form mudflows that can cause significant damage.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Walla Walla District was scheduled to deploy a team of technical experts this week to assess post-wildfire conditions and associated flood risks in Elmore and Blaine counties.  In anticipation of this increased risk the State of Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security (IBHS) requested the Corps to provide advance measures technical assistance to evaluate the situation and identify potential mitigation measures.

Most standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage. Without flood insurance homeowners and businesses must cover the costs to repair or rebuild on their own. Residents should consider their risk and the consequences of a flood event and make the choice to protect themselves.

Idahoans can visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more about individual flood risk, explore coverage options and to find an agent in their area.

Published 10-4-13