DES MOINES, Iowa - FEMA is warning Iowans in high-risk flood areas to get flood insurance. The agency says it's also a good idea for people who don't live in high-risk zones.
FEMA flood insurance can be expensive for those high-risk flood zones, but preferred rates for low risk areas are modest, ranging from about $100 to $500 per year, according to Daniel Bell of Clive, a FEMA flood insurance agent.
"The peril of flood is specifically excluded on home insurance. So, in order to get yourself covered for a scenario where you have water coming into your house, you would have to purchase a flood insurance policy," Bell said.
Bell tells WHO Radio News the combination of melting snow and spring rain could make this year a big one for flooding.
Many Iowans don't have flood insurance for water that ends up in their basements after heavy rains or for unexpected flash flooding.
There is a 30-day waiting period before the FEMA flood insurance goes into effect, so Bell says people considering flood insurance should act quickly.