Many people in Southwest Florida rush to purchase flood insurance before hurricane season—which lasts from June to November. Many people believe canceling their policies over the winter is beneficial, but this is a mistake. Here is why Florida residents need to invest in year-round flood insurance.

3 Reasons You Need Flood Insurance Year-Round

1. Rain Floods

Florida's rainy season—during which it gets about 70% of its yearly rainfall—lasts from May to October. Even an inch or two of flooding can cause thousands of dollars of property damage. For a few dollars a month, you can protect your home in case of heavy downpours.

2. Rising Rivers & Lakes

Your area doesn't need to be affected by rain to experience flooding. If regions upstream from you get unexpected rainfall levels, it can cause rivers to overflow their beds, lakes to rise, and swamps to spread. Moreover, the average elevation in Florida is about six feet, with some areas only three feet above sea level. This leaves residents living near the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean extremely vulnerable.

3. Overflowing Drainage Basins

Because Florida is so populous—more than 21 million inhabitants—it houses many urban centers. These are areas of widespread concrete, asphalt, and other impermeable materials. Because rain cannot seep into the ground through these acres of hardscape, communities need urban drainage basins to collect the water. Large portions of a city will flood if one of these overflow, but flood insurance will protect any lost or damaged property.

To purchase affordable flood insurance from Wesley Chapel, FL’s premier agency, contact Family First Insurance Services. They serve residents of Pasco County and the surrounding areas and have deep ties to the community. Visit their website to reach out to them online, or call (813) 994-3900 to request a quote.