As a Texas insurance agency along the Houston Gulf Coast, we feel that flood insurance is one of the most important coverages a Texas homeowner should have in addition to homeowner’s insurance. And yet, we are always the asked the question: I don’t live in a flood plain, so why do I need flood insurance?
Floods are the number one natural disaster in the U.S. Anywhere it rains, it can certainly flood. Whether you live in Dallas, Galveston, Houston or Katy, Texas – flood insurance is relevant.
You might be surprised to learn that according to FEMA, all areas of the country have experienced flooding within the past year; in fact, almost 25% of insurance claims come from low-risk flood areas.
Hurricanes a’comin
Along the Texas Gulf Coast, we are no strangers to hurricanes and are quite familiar with the term ‘hunker down’. Although the more powerful hurricanes get a lot of attention, the weaker ones cause more trouble in the area of flooding.
In 2001, Tropical Storm Allison stalled over Texas for several days, leading to catastrophic flooding. The Greater Houston Area tallied up a bill of over $5 billion in flood damages.
Although the risk of flooding increases immensely during hurricane season, it can happen during any season of the year.
Flooding on the Fly
Flash floods are incredibly dangerous and can harness enough power to create massive destruction. It’s no wonder that flash flooding is the number one weather-related killer in the U.S.
In fact, the neighborhood of Seven Meadows in Katy, Texas near our corporate office experienced flash flooding during February of this year. Of course we had heavy rains, but an unexpected factor that came into play was that it was trash pick-up day. Everyone had their trash cans and recycle bins out awaiting pick-up.
Trash cans and bins were swept up in the torrential downpour and the debris scattered throughout the streets, clogging the gutters. This neighborhood flooded in a matter of hours! Our Executive Vice President, Marcus Henneke, took video of the aftermath of flash flooding in Katy, Texas.
Flooding can happen at anytime and anywhere regardless of the flood risk associated with the area. As a Houston, Texas insurance agency with clients all along the Gulf Coast, we’ve seen it happen.
More than anything, we want to make sure you, your family and home are well-protected. Texas is blessed with many things and unfortunately, hurricanes is one of them. Are you prepared? Fill out the flood insurance form for a free quote today!