Only flood insurance covers flood damage.
Most
standard homeowner insurance policies do not cover flood damage, yet
floods are the most common and costly natural hazard in the nation.
Wildfires often exacerbate the flood problem. After a wildfire,
vegetation that once absorbed rainfall and reduced runoff may be
entirely gone. Even soil, once soaking up the water, becomes charred and
resistant to absorption. The post-wildfire conditions contributing to
flash flooding may persist for 5-10 years. The FEMA Flood After Fire Fact Sheet provides additional information on risks and protection.
Post
wildfire flash floods can occur within minutes of a rainstorm. Flood
water may pick up debris and ash left from the fire forming mudflows.
Flooding and mudflows can cause significant damage and bring high
out-of-pocket costs to property owners. Without flood insurance, many
property owners will cover the cost of repairing or rebuilding on their
own.
Be FloodSmart and reduce your risk.
The
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides a means for property
owners to financially protect themselves. The NFIP offers flood
insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community
participates in the NFIP. Participating communities agree to adopt and
enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA requirements to reduce the
risk of flooding. The FEMA Wildfire and Flood Risks tri-fold provides information on flooding, mudflows, and landslides along with insurance considerations.
Find out more about the NFIP and how it can help you protect yourself. Visit the home page of the NFIP at FloodSmart.gov.
Floodplain Management and National Flood Insurance Program Contacts:
Michael Gease, Natural Hazards Specialist, FEMA, (303) 235-4814, michael.gease@fema.dhs.gov
Jamie Prochno, Community Assistance Program Manager, Colorado Water Conservation Board, (303) 866-3441 x3215, jamie.prochno@state.co.us
