Story Published:
Mar 18, 2008 at 1:38 PM CST
Story Updated:
Mar 18, 2008 at 2:01 PM CST
Many area rivers are once again rising to flood stage this week after heavy rains soak the Midwest.
According to federal authorities, flooding is the most common natural disaster in the country.
As we saw just this past January in central Illinois, floods can happen anywhere and at any time of the year.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is urging everyone to prepare and be protected financially before the water starts to rise.
While almost everyone can get flood insurance no matter where they live, there usually is a 30-day wait before the policy takes effect.
David Maurstad is a FEMA Flood Insurance Administrator and said, "It really is something that can happen throughout the year and so people need to look at it the same way they look at their homeowner, their fire, their automobile policy and take care of it so when that unforeseen and unexpected loss happens they have the financial backstop to recover and get their feet back on the ground."
This is Flood Safety Awareness Week when residents are urged to take steps to protect themselves before seasonal floods strike.
Individuals can learn more about their flood risk and how to protect their property by dialing 1-800-427-2419.
