Summer 2005

Flooding still a problem in county; flood insurance recommended

With flood levels in some areas of Volusia County at historic highs, residents throughout the county are having flooding problems and the problem is particularly acute in West Volusia, the Volusia County Council was told recently. Gary Cook, a Volusia County stormwater engineer, said some areas never recovered from flooding during last year's hurricanes and this year's unusually high rainfall amounts have added to the problem.

"We’re doing what we can to respond," Cook told the County Council. “But there's only so much we can do, and in many cases, there are very limited options."

A car navigates its way through about six inches of standing water along Marjorie
Rawlins Drive in the Cross Creek subdivision on the northwest side of DeLand.

According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floods have caused more than $7 billion in losses in the United States in the last 10 years. Damage from flooding–the number one natural disaster in the nation–almost always is not covered by homeowner insurance. Only flood insurance holders are protected against flood recovery expenses.

"Even homes that aren't in a flood plain can be at risk for flash floods or damage due to heavy rains," said Cook. One in four flood loss claims is filed in lower risk zones.

Flood insurance, administered through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), can be purchased through local insurance agents for as little as $112 a year for low-risk areas. NFIP policy premiums average around $400 a year. Residents can call 800-427-4219 or go online to estimate flood risks or insurance premiums for their neighborhoods. They can also contact the nearest insurance agent carrying flood insurance.

"It is not a good idea to wait until a flood is coming to purchase a policy, since it takes 30 days for the policy to take effect," said Jim Ryan, Volusia County's Emergency Management director. "Residents who already have flood insurance should make sure their policies are current, since policies must be renewed each year."

After a natural disaster, the primary option for those without the additional coverage is to apply for a federal disaster assistance loan that must be repaid in full with interest.