Virginia DCR highlights Flood Awareness Week, March 13-19

As spring rains and hurricane season approach, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is promoting Flood Awareness Week (March 13-19) and urging Virginians to know their risks and protect their property.

Most homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover damage from floods, surface water or storm surges. Only three percent of Virginians have flood insurance, according to the National Flood Insurance Program.

As the state agency that coordinates flood-protection activities, DCR provides the Virginia Flood Risk Information System (dcr.virginia.gov/dam-safety-and-floodplains/fpvfris), which allows Virginians to identify their property’s flood risk. DCR also helps communities comply with requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program, which gives residents -- regardless of flood zone -- the ability to purchase federally-backed flood insurance.

“Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster. It’s not an ‘if’ – it’s a ‘when,’ and we want Virginians to be protected,” said acting DCR Director Frank Stovall. “Flood Awareness Week is a great time for citizens to review their insurance policies and make sure they have the coverage they need before the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs June 1 through Nov. 30. Floods, not winds, are the biggest threat from hurricanes,” Stovall added.

To further spotlight the issue, DCR has partnered with Art Works in Richmond to sponsor an exhibition on flood awareness. Works by 25 artists will be on view in the gallery through March 19 and may also be viewed online.

For details about Flood Awareness Week, including fact sheets, a cost calculator and a risk-assessment tool, visit dcr.virginia.gov/floodawarenessweek/.