Flooding Never Takes a Holiday Break
Many property owners are busy planning for the holidays, making it easy to forget about their flood insurance plan. Flood risk doesn’t freeze in the winter. Frozen ground can't absorb water like it does in warmer months, so the risk of flash floods is high. Snowmelt floods also happen across the United States when snow thaws rapidly. All it takes is a warm day or heavy rainfall after it snows to cause severe flood damage.
Start talking to your clients about their flood risk during the colder months with these talking points.
Remind them winter flooding exists. In 2018, the Northeast experienced record flooding from Winter Storm Riley, with storm surge hitting multiple states. In January 2020, storms brought heavy rains to the South and Midwest, with flash floods in Oklahoma and Wisconsin. Many parts of the U.S. have relatively mild winters, and where it rains, it floods.
“Spring” snow thaws can come early. It’s not just storms that are growing more unpredictable. If snow melts while the ground is still frozen, it’s a recipe for flooding because frozen soil can’t absorb the water. Waiting for spring flooding season can be a costly mistake when most flood insurance policies require 30 days to take effect.
Life will still be too busy after the holidays. New Year’s resolutions, tax season, spring sports, and planning for summer vacations… life just keeps coming at you. The longer clients wait to purchase flood insurance, the longer the period of unprotected risk.
Peace of mind is among the best holiday gifts. Flooding is the most common and most costly disaster in the U.S. Knowing that they have the financial means to rebuild their homes and lives provides clients with a greater sense of security.
As changing weather patterns increase disaster risks across the country, it is more important than ever to build community resilience through communication and awareness. You are the trusted advisor who can help families understand their flood risk and their options for financial protection.
Want to stay up to date on all things related to flood insurance? Follow NFIP on LinkedIn where we share new content daily.
