Flooding Can Strike Anywhere

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and flash floods can happen almost everywhere, and at any time during heavy rains, when ocean waves come on shore, when snow melts too fast, or when dams or levees break.  Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.  According to National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) more than 20% of all flood insurance claims come from areas in low to moderate risk flood zones.  On average, floods cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. 

Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of floods, because they combine the destructive power of a flood with incredible speed and unpredictability. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.  Flash floods occur when excessive water fills normally dry creeks or river beds along with currently flowing creeks and rivers, causing rapid rises of water in a short amount of time. They can happen with little or no warning.

Many residents and business owners are unaware that they qualify for flood insurance. You can take steps to reduce the financial impact of flooding before a disaster strikes.

Preparing for a Flood

Residents and business owners need to prepare for flood conditions. Before the threat of flooding becomes imminent, residents and business owners should:

• Purchase a flood insurance policy if they do not already have one. 

• Review their current insurance policy, become familiar with what is covered, and ensure the limits are adequate for their building and personal belongings.

• Make an emergency kit, plan evacuation routes, and keep important papers in a safe, waterproof place.

• Itemize and take pictures of possessions.

If you are experiencing water damage due to flood, give SERVPRO of Petaluma/Rohnert Park a call 707-588-8226  We're Here to Help restore your home or business back to pre-water damage condition.  We can quickly extract the water and then dry your property using state-of-the-art equipment.