Authorities are urging people to get flood insurance now and not to wait until it’s too late.
Pasco County Director of Emergency Services, Kevin Guthrie, said people need to do their research. The recent rainfall throughout the Tampa Bay Area the past few days is a good reminder to make sure you’re covered.
“It’s imperative they get it. It’s the only way they’re going to fully recover from a disaster that involves a flood. It’s the only way,” Guthrie said.
There are several communities in Pasco County known to flood when there is significant rainfall. Jennifer Leatham lives in Pasco County and she used to have flood insurance many years ago, but said she cannot afford it.
“It’s expensive right now,” Leatham said.
She said she would get it, if she could. When it rains, she knows it’ll get into her house, which is why she pulls out pumps, fans, and sandbags to protect her home.
According to FEMA, more than 20 percent of people who file claims do not live in a high risk flood zone.
For more information on flood insurance go to https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program.
