Fort Lauderdale, Florida – One of Fort Lauderdale’s worst flooding events took place in April 2023. The city received an incredible 26 inches of rain in just half-day, causing significant damage and underlining the great importance of readiness and appropriate insurance coverage.
Understanding how often and unpredictably such events happen, Fort Lauderdale actively supports the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Since most normal homeowner insurance plans exclude flood damage, this project is really essential. With affordable flood insurance options, the NFIP seeks to reduce the financial burden on residents.
Mark Hagerty, the Floodplain Manager for Fort Lauderdale, highlights the need of community involvement in the NFIP.
“We want our community to be protected in the event of a flood, and to make sure that our residents and business owners have the opportunity to purchase flood insurance,” said Hagerty. “Having this coverage helps them recover faster when floodwaters recede.”
Residents should contact their regular insurance provider—the same agent handling their home or auto insurance could help with flood insurance quotes—so starting the process of obtaining flood insurance.
Comprehensive coverage depends on flood insurance since it handles especially with damages directly resulting from floods. This can affect the contents within as well as the building’s framework. Property owners in Fort Lauderdale can protect themselves against unanticipated events by subscribing to flood insurance, therefore safeguarding their houses, businesses, and personal belongings.
Preparation is key in managing flood risks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about updates to flood maps, which are readily accessible through the city’s flood program resources online. Furthermore, very important is knowing and using flood prevention techniques. The fact that flood insurance policies usually have a 30-day waiting period before they start to pay emphasizes the need of early actions.
The city recommends that citizens connect themselves with local evacuation routes, create an emergency plan and kit, and think about home remodeling to improve flood resistance in order to protect themselves against the immediate dangers of flooding. For an emergency, having on hand basic items include plywood, sandbags, and waterproof plastic.
The community helps to preserve safety during floods as well. Actions that benefit the community include maintaining storm drains free and reporting any illegal building in flood-prone regions.
Residents can visit the city’s official flood information website or directly get in touch with the Development Services Department for further information on how to participate with Fort Lauderdale’s flood preparedness activities or about the NFIP.
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Through these combined efforts in education, preparation, and insurance coverage, Fort Lauderdale aims to fortify its resilience against future floods, safeguarding both its residents and the rich tapestry of the community.