The National Hurricane Center and FLASH® Remind You to Protect Your Family, Business, and Home this Peak Hurricane Season

Flooding is the Nation’s costliest and deadliest natural disaster, affecting every state in the United States. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), storm surge poses the greatest threat to life and property along U.S. coasts.

Dr. Rick Knabb, director of the NHC, stated, “Hurricanes and flooding can pose serious risks to your family and property. By making a plan and taking preventive actions, you can get ahead of the storm and protect what matters to you.”

In a recent research study, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program found that approximately a third of homeowners believe they are in a lower risk area for flooding and, therefore, do not feel the need to buy flood insurance; but homeowners insurance does not cover losses due to flooding. Only flood insurance covers damage from rising waters. It typically takes 30 days after purchase for a policy to take effect, so it’s important to obtain a policy before floodwaters start to rise.

“It only takes one bad storm to cause catastrophic damages,” said Leslie Chapman-Henderson, president and CEO of Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH®). “We must reduce the potential for this kind of damage and take action to be prepared.”

The lessons of the “Big Four” can help make a difference in the way residents prepare for hurricane season — including the importance of flood insurance. The public should take the necessary steps to prepare for peak hurricane season. More information about flood insurance can be found at FloodSmart.gov.

About FLASH
The nonprofit FLASH® is the country’s leading consumer advocate for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters. Learn more about FLASH® and its free consumer resources at www.flash.org or 877-221-SAFE (877-221-7233).

About the National Hurricane Center
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s NHC mission is to save lives, mitigate property loss, and improve economic efficiency by issuing the best watches, warnings, forecasts, and analyses of hazardous tropical weather, and by increasing the understanding of these hazards through global outreach.