Flooding Causes Damage Throughout the Carolinas

At the beginning of this month North Carolina and South Carolina experienced severe weather that affected homes and businesses all along the coast. This weather caused serious flooding and damage. While many property and homeowners were protected, there were some that did not have flood insurance. Those without the insurance needed to protect themselves have been left with devastating damage and costly repairs.

Hurricane Joaquin was set at a category 4 as it made its way up the East Coast, bringing with it rain, winds, and damaging flooding.

It was reported that at least 17 people died in weather-related incidents: 15 in South Carolina and two in North Carolina. At least nine people drowned and six died in traffic accidents, South Carolina's Department of Public Safety said. North Carolina reported two deaths from traffic accidents, in Cumberland and Jackson counties, a state emergency management spokeswoman said.

The rain may have stopped, but the Carolinas are grappling with a host of new concerns. Dam breaks. Billions of dollars in damage. And rivers that still haven't crested. Residence and homeowners have been left to pick up the pieces and get their homes back in order.

How can we prepare more in the future for weather such as this?

  1. Find out if you're at risk
  2. Make a flood plan
  3. Improve your property's flood protection
  4. Get insurance
  5. Be prepared for affects of flooding
  6. Get help during a flood
  7. Get help after a flood

North Carolina flood insurance is one of the greatest weapons against damage and costly repairs after a weather event such as this. What can be confusing for many homeowner is whether or not they are in a flood zone.

Flood zone maps are available to business and homeowners all throughout the state. Many rely on this map to help them better understand their need for flood insurance.

The most common misconception is that only those in the areas at risk for flood need insurance. This is not the case. Many outside the flood areas can be susceptible to flooding and damage, leaving them unprotected from the cost of the repairs and clean up.

The best way to protect yourself against financial devastation in the face of a weather disaster is to contact a local insurance agent. Knowing your home or business is protected is a piece of mind we all deserve.

Universal Property & Casualty Insurance CompanyArroweadUPC InsuranceSCUNCJUANational General