Federal and state emergency agencies encourage purchase of flood insurance

The Mississippi River crested Tuesday one foot above the flood stage at Cape Girardeau, a level that puts water on a few farm fields but causes no major disruptions.

In 2008, the river crested above flood stage seven times, including five times when the downtown flood gates were closed and railroad traffic through the city was suspended.

But as the people forced from their homes during the massive rainstorm that hit Southeast Missouri last year at this time know, flood damages don't only occur when a big river slowly climbs above its banks. The most devastating damage can occur during a flash flood, when water surges into areas where it is not expected.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Management Agency urge homeowners and businesses to buy flood insurance during National Flood Safety Awareness Week, which continues through Friday.

Flooding is the No. 1 natural disaster in the United States in terms of lost lives and damaged property, FEMA said in a news release. Of 550 major disasters during the past 10 years, 310 involved flooding.

Flood insurance is available only through the National Flood Insurance Program. Homeowners, businesses and renters are eligible for coverage, with premiums based on risk. Policies offer up to $250,000 coverage for residences, up to $100,000 coverage for personal possessions and up to $500,000 for business buildings and contents. Rates can vary. For businesses, the rates can range from $2,500 annually for full coverage in a low-risk area to more than $11,000 annually in a high-risk area.

Homeowner rates are much less, typically less than $500 a year in low-risk areas for maximum coverage.

After the Great Flood of 1993, the program rules were changed so that flood insurance had to be in effect for 30 days before damage occurred to be eligible for a claim.

Go to www.floodsmart.gov to find estimated premiums and insurance agents offering flood insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program can also be reached at 888-356-6329.

rkeller@semissourian.com

388-3642

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