Three Things Columbia, MO Homeowners Need to Know about Floods

Photo by Casey Horner on Unsplash

Columbia, MO homeowners could be in for a hard flood season. Extreme weather events threaten many parts of the US. Knowledge is the key to weathering a storm safely. If there’s flooding on the horizon, there are three things you need to know in order to protect your building.

1. If You’re in a Flood Plain

A flood plain is simply the area close to a river that’s made of river sediments and is very prone to flooding when the river overflows. However, the term is used informally to mean any area of low elevation that is likely to flood in extreme weather. This can be due to a rising river, pond, lake, or ocean. It can also be due to the geography of the location. If your building is between hills, for example, the runoff of rain could put your building at risk of flooding even if the surrounding area is safe.

Knowing whether or not you’re in a flood plain can help you in a number of ways. First of all, knowing whether or not you’re in a flood plain can help you get the right insurance for your property. A good insurance policy will ensure that your building is protected in case of flooding. Secondly, knowing you’re in a flood plain will help you decide how much to prepare in advance. If you know that your house is prone to flooding, you can take extra precautions before the weather turns serious.

2. Turning Off Your Utilities Can Save Your Building

If you have to evacuate a building, or you know that your building will soon flood no matter what you do, turn off your utilities. Turning off your utilities before a flood hits protects your building from extra damage.  Columbia, MO homeowners can also lower the risk to themselves and their employees or families by turning off the utilities. Every homeowner should know how to turn off the water and electricity (and natural gas, should you have it). Electrical shortages caused by flooding can be unpredictable and dangerous. If a pipe is burst by incoming debris, you could ironically cause more severe flooding to your home than it would otherwise have experienced. Turning off utilities helps prevent extra damage

3. Flood Damage Doesn’t Stop

The last thing Columbia, MO homeowners need to know is that flood damage doesn’t stop. Until the flood damaged items are replaced or restored, the damage will remain and even continue. Bacteria, mold, and rot all flourish even after the flood waters have receded. If you leave your building alone, the problems will only get worse. Call in professionals as soon as possible to begin the restoration process and end the destruction of your property.

Knowing as much as you can in advance is the best way to protect your property. Many Columbia, MO homeowners don’t know whether or not their home is in a flood plain. Before a storm hits, make sure you can turn off your utilities if you have to. No matter what, know that the damage doesn’t end just because the flood did. Reach out to professionals to restore your property.