No matter where you live, you are at risk of some type of natural disaster. Whether out west with Earthquakes, the midwest’s tornados, the south’s hurricanes, or the Northeast’s winter blizzards, you and your home are at risk. Here in New England, we aren’t at a threat to a blizzard in the middle of July, but flooding can still be an issue in many areas, and that’s why having Hartford flood insurance is key in maintaining your livelihood in the event of a torrential storm.
You probably don’t know all the different types of flooding that can occur in our region, but the most common is flash flooding. Here is a breakdown of what exactly a flash flood is and how your Hartford flood insurance will cover you for it:
What is a flash flood?
A flash flood is a rapid rise of water along a stream or low-lying urban area. Flash flooding occurs within six hours of a significant rain event and is usually caused by intense storms that produce heavy rainfall in a short amount of time. Excessive rainfall that causes rivers and streams to swell rapidly and overflow their banks is frequently associated with hurricanes and tropical storms, large clusters of thunderstorms, supercells, or squall lines. Other types of flash floods can occur from dam or levee failures, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam. Heavy rainfall in the mountains can cause downstream canyon flooding.
Why is a flash flood so dangerous?
Flash floods can occur with little or no warning. Flash flood damage and most fatalities tend to occur in areas immediately adjacent to a stream or arroyo. Flash floods are very strong — they can roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels. Rapidly rising water can reach heights of 30 feet or more. Flash flood-producing rains falling on steep terrain can weaken soil and trigger catastrophic mud slides that damage homes, roads, and property.
What areas are at risk from flash floods?
Densely populated areas are at a high risk for flash floods. The construction of buildings, highways, driveways, and parking lots increases runoff by reducing the amount of rain absorbed by the ground. This runoff increases the flash flood potential.
Sometimes, streams through cities and towns are routed underground into storm drains. During heavy rain, the storm drains can become overwhelmed and flood roads and buildings. Low spots, such as underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements can become death traps.
If you are in an area with a high flash flooding risk, make sure to inquire about Hartford flood insurance today. Don’t wait until it’s too late and your life savings get swept away along with your couch.