A flood can develop in many ways, but the most common is when lakes, rivers, and streams overflow their banks. Although floods occur naturally, they can have destructive power, and with this type of force, many structures cannot withstand the pressure. Not only are cars affected in these types of waters, but bridges, trees, and houses can also be picked up and carried off. Moreover, it is dangerous to swim in floodwaters as they can carry disease.

This is why it is important to have flood insurance for your home or business in Ohio.

Sure, most wet wetlands along river banks and lakes absorb floodwaters. Heavy rainstorms and the typical year-round snowmelt in the springtime can also cause floods, especially in the Midwest region. Although, each year, new records are being broken with more flood-related accidents and sometimes deaths.

Common Flood Areas in Ohio

Did you know that floods are the second most widespread natural disaster after wildfires? The most dangerous aspect of floods is that they can develop quickly and without warning. When it comes to Ohio, floods are common in the low-lying areas of the state and the regions near the rivers. Depending on where your home or business sits, floodwaters may not affect the area now, but it can easily be the case in 5, 10, or 15 years.

Let’s not forget about hurricane winds and rainstorm systems that can push far into the state throughout the seasons. According to this map, the lowest elevation in Ohio is 455 feet above sea level, and the highest point is about 1,500 feet. This type of low elevation can be easy for floodwaters to remain stagnant if they cannot correctly drain themselves out.

In May a few years ago, heavy rain caused flooding at Ohio State University. The Olentangy River reached a near record-level high in the spring of 2020, which caused several floods in the parking lots and forced road closures around the campus. And just two years prior, the worst flood event in twenty years occurred in parts of Ohio and Kentucky, along the Ohio River, due to heavy rains.

Plan and Stay Prepared for Flood Season

Just because your home hasn’t suffered flood damage in the past or any other damage from a natural disaster in Ohio, it doesn’t mean you can’t prepare. As a homeowner, you should purchase flood insurance for peace of mind.

A flood insurance policy can cover physical damage caused by flooding to the building, personal property, detached garages, furnaces, washers and dryers, water heaters, sump pumps, and more. Contact us today for a free quote at 740-687-5733 and more information regarding flood insurance policy options in Lancaster, Ohio.

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