Idaho Residents Warned About Spring Flood Risk

The Idaho Department of Insurance is warning homeowners about the potential risk of heavy spring flooding, with accompanying property damage, resulting from the heavy snowfall that areas of the state have already received this winter. The department noted that sudden thaws of heavy snow pack can lead to flooding, and a midwinter or early spring thaw can produce large amounts of runoff in a short period of time. Such runoff cannot penetrate frozen ground and causes lakes, streams and rivers to spill over their banks.

“We want consumers to be aware that most homeowner’s policies do not include coverage for flood insurance,” said Idaho Department Director Bill Deal.

Deal is urging Idaho residents to contact their insurance producers about coverage for this risk given that a 30-day waiting period usually applies when purchasing a new flood policy.

“Now is the time to review your coverage and be sure your home and belongings are protected if a flood occurs in your area in the coming months,” said Deal.

Source: Idaho Department of Insurance