Talbot County experts warn residents about flooding risk
MARYLAND – While water may be fun to play in– it’s not so fun when it gets into your car or your home. Climate experts say rising sea levels could ultimately lead to more frequent and destructive flooding. In Talbot County, zoning officials are trying to educate residents about that risk.
Floods can lead to financial fiascos according to Co-owner of Farm Creek Insurance Lori Nagel. She says many people don’t understand what’s covered by their homeowner’s insurance. “Your homeowner’s insurance does not cover flooding. most people do not realize that… People they think of flooding and they think tidal flooding. where a big wave comes in and washes, but rising surface water is also considered flooding and that can come from heavy rains, and they get damage they weren’t expecting, especially where we live in lower lying area.”
Nagel says people shouldn’t assume they can’t afford flood insurance and they also shouldn’t make the mistake of not getting it. “Talbot County for example, their website, with the flood resiliency has wonderful maps that you can click on, it would tell you what flood zone you’re in. Call your agent, get the quote.”
Bryce Yelton is the Floodplain Coordinator for Talbot County. He tells us people who have a plan can help mitigate those flooding issues. “One mistake that we see is people not having flood insurance… A floodplain is an area that FEMA has determined is prone to future flooding. In Talbot County here we’ve got AE flood zones and V flood zones. AE flood zones are where you’ve got a 1% annual chance of flooding up to a certain elevation.”
Yelton says the key is knowing exactly what YOUR risk is and ensuring you’re fully covered, so you don’t end up drowning in debt. “As a community we know what our overall risk being close to the bay, being close to all the rivers that feed into the Chesapeake Bay. But just knowing your risk. Being a homeowner and knowing about your risk when it comes to flooding on your property. how low lying your property might be.”
Experts stress that proper planning and insurance can prevent you from losing everything – or even just offset the cost of water damage. They warn all residents if there is a flood, to quote “Turn around, and don’t drown” and go online and find your zone so you can always be in the know. The hope all residents are staying above water.
