Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials said there may be expedited access to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those impacted by flooding resulting from wildfires.
Officials said residents in western states may be eligible for an exception to the NFIP 30-day waiting period usually required for flood insurance coverage.
FEMA officials acknowledged though flood insurance coverage is often not an immediate concern of property owners near areas experiencing wildland fires, the removal of vegetation post-fire can result in ground unable to absorb water, increasing flood risks.
Passage of the 2012 Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act exempts residents from a 30-day waiting period for flood insurance coverage to become effective, officials said, noting eligibility for the exception is determined on a case-by-case basis.
FEMA said the NFIP provides a means for property owners to financially protect themselves against flooding, which typically is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. The program offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community participates in the NFIP.
The NFIP is administered by FEMA, which works with nearly 90 private insurance companies to provide affordable flood insurance to property owners and renters in NFIP-participating communities.
Officials said one of the most critical ways to financially protect your home or business and its contents from flooding is to purchase flood insurance.