AUTO & HOME
What To Know About Floods
Get the facts about flooding so you’re ready if disaster strikes.
FACT: All 50 states have experienced flooding in the past five years.
This means no one is exempt. You should learn flood safety and know how to react quickly if floodwaters head your way.
FACT: You live in a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-identified flood zone. Everyone does.
There are different levels of flood risk, though. Use this tool to check whether your zone has a low, moderate, or high risk of flooding.
FACT: It only takes a few inches of floodwater to cause thousands of dollars in damage.
This makes it important to protect your property. To help prevent or reduce damage, waterproof your basement; keep valuables and important documents in a safe, top-floor location; and have an electrician elevate electrical panels, switches, sockets, and appliances.
FACT: You can lose control of your vehicle in just six inches of slow-moving water. Just two feet of rushing water can carry the car away.
Don’t plan on driving. Most flood-related deaths occur when people attempt to drive on flooded roadways. If you’re on the road when water starts to rise, turn around if you see standing water.
FACT: Floodwater can rise quickly.
Plan to evacuate as soon as the National Weather Service issues a flood watch — before the conditions become treacherous. To be able to leave at a moment’s notice, keep your car fueled, store emergency supplies in your trunk, and plan which routes to use.
FACT: Standard homeowners or renters insurance does not cover flood damage.
Talk to your insurance agent or get a quote online at metlife.getflood.com. The best time to do it is now - before the rain comes.