Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
If you live in Utah, you may not think about the dangers of flooding. The Beehive State is the second driest state in America, but that doesn’t mean that Utahns are at a lower risk for flooding.
You may be surprised to learn flooding is the most common natural disaster in Utah, yet most homeowners and renters aren’t adequately covered. Flood insurance is different from homeowners insurance, and 97 percent of Utahns are not protected in the event of a flood.
The top three surprising causes of floods you need to know:
1. Flash floods
Flash floods cause the most flood-related deaths in the United States, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Utah’s desert environment does not mean that we are safe from experiencing a flash flood — they occur when we get a large amount of rainfall in a short amount of time. Unfortunately, flash floods often happen quickly — without warning.
Some of the most likely places for flash floods to occur:
- Areas with steep slopes.
- Narrow valleys and slot canyons.
- Areas where gutters speed rain runoff.
2. Overloaded drainage systems and broken water mains
If a pipe breaks in your home, homeowners insurance will often cover the damage. However, if a pipe, sprinkler or water main breaks outside your house, you will need flood insurance to stay protected.
Most urban areas have stormwater collection systems to minimize flooding, but flooding can still happen. You never know when a storm drain will clog, break or rupture in your community. Since homeowners insurance only covers pipe breaks inside of your home, make sure to talk to your local insurance agent about protecting your home from all types of flooding with flood insurance.
3. Natural erosion and landslides
You do not need to live near water to experience flooding. More than 70 percent of flooding in Utah in the past few years has been outside of the special flood hazard areas. Natural events, such as debris flows and mudslides, may cause a flood.
If you live near a steep slope, you should get a ground assessment of your property to discover the likelihood of a landslide. The warning signs of a landslide include:
- Changes in your landscape, such as movement.
- Doors and windows sticking for the first time.
- New cracks in your foundation or walls.
- Trees and fences moving.
