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Devastating to infrastructure, farms, businesses, and families, floods continue to plague many regions of the country. Preparedness and mitigation are two crucial components of addressing flooding. Flooding on the Mississippi River in 1993 was the inspiration for EDEN, and continues to be a major focus of EDEN activity.

Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters — except fire. Most communities in the United States have experienced some kind of flooding, after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms, winter snow thaws, unusual rise of lakes, or surge of oceans and seas as a result of hurricanes or tsunamis.

Recovery Resources (Recent Events)

• Rapid Response to Extreme Weather Events Across Food and Agricultural Systems — NIFA
• Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network — NIFA
• Hurricane Recovery Assistance — USDA Farmers.gov
• Emergency Watershed Protection — NRCS
• Hurricane Preparation and Recovery Commodity Guides — USDA Climate Hubs

Principal Messages

• Buy flood insurance — floodsmart.gov
• Turn Around. Don't Drown. — NOAA Turn Around Don't Drown
• Make a disaster supply kit — one for staying, one for going
• Listen for local alerts; evacuate if advised by local officials
• Protect your property from rising water, if possible

Flood Insurance Facts

• Flooding is not covered by homeowners insurance — a separate policy is required
• There is a 30-day waiting period between purchase and coverage becoming effective (with a few exceptions)
• Flood insurance covers damage caused by rising water — building and contents coverage is provided in two separate policies
• Flood insurance pays up to $30,000 toward the cost of elevating a home if it was substantially damaged and is being required to elevate before restoration

Help Your Communities Prepare

• Know YOUR risk — talk to your local emergency manager
• Prepare yourself and your Extension office for flooding
• Help your local communities prepare to protect and recover
• Help consumer clients be informed, know their risk, and prepare and protect themselves