Non-Coastal Floods | Oklahoma Insurance Bad Faith Lawyers

Flooding Isn’t Just a Problem for Coastal Cities

Posted October 13, 2014

When Hurricane Katrina passed near New Orleans in August of 2005, it wasn’t the storm itself that took the lives of nearly 1500 people and displaced many more. Although the wind and the rain caused severe property damage, the real culprit was the massive flooding that ensued as a result of the failure of the levees that at once protected the state of Louisiana. New Orleans and many other cities along the Gulf of Mexico are still recovering nearly ten years later from the massive damage caused by water damage from flooding.

Flooding Beyond Coastal Cities

But flooding isn’t just a problem for coastal cities. Flooding is a natural disaster that can affect anyone, regardless of where they live. In fact, flooding is the most common type of natural disaster in the United States, with flash floods causing an estimated 200 deaths annually.

Flooding is a Problem in Oklahoma

Flooding is a bigger problem in Oklahoma than most realize. For example, in 2007, Tropical Storm Erin affected cities well into central and northern Texas, upward into Oklahoma and even Missouri. Customers in many communities lost power, portions of major interstates were shut down, one person drowned, and several other deaths were reported. Communities with large mobile home communities were heavily affected as well. According to the National Climatic Data Center, over $2 million in property damage was reported.

Steps for Protecting Property from Flood Damage

  • If you have a basement, seal the walls with waterproof compounds.
  • If possible, construct floodwalls to help stop the possible flow of floodwaters before they reach your home.
  • Consider purchasing a sump pump, as well as a backup that operates on batteries.
  • Elevate electrical components and the water heater, washer and dryer, and furnace no less than 12 inches above any assumed flood levels.
  • New homes located in flood zones should be elevated and reinforced.

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