Governor Glenn Youngkin has designated March 9-15 as Virginia Flood Safety Awareness Week, highlighting the importance of flood preparedness as the state enters its spring rainy season and approaches the Atlantic hurricane season. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is leading efforts to raise awareness about flood risks and mitigation strategies.
Flooding: Virginia’s Costliest Natural Disaster
Flooding is the most frequent and expensive natural disaster in Virginia, affecting thousands of properties annually. While coastal flooding is a known risk, recent events have demonstrated that flooding can occur anywhere in the state. The impacts of Hurricane Helene in Southwest Virginia and widespread flooding from heavy rains in February caused significant damage, displacing families and affecting critical infrastructure.
DCR officials emphasize the importance of understanding flood risks and taking preventative measures to reduce damage and financial loss. The DCR Floodplain Management Division plays a key role in statewide flood risk reduction efforts, offering planning resources, technical assistance, and public education.
Virginia’s Updated Flood Risk Tools
To improve flood risk assessment, DCR has updated the Virginia Flood Risk Information System (VFRIS) with a new, user-friendly interface. The tool allows users to enter an address to view flood risk data, with an optional expert mode providing more detailed information. The state aims to make flood risk data more accessible to assist in mitigation planning.
Low Flood Insurance Participation Rates
Despite the recurring risk of flooding, only 3% of Virginians have flood insurance, according to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Many standard homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage, leading officials to stress the importance of evaluating coverage options.
Angela Davis, DCR Division Director of Floodplain Management, noted that Flood Awareness Week serves as an opportunity to educate the public on the benefits of flood insurance and risk mitigation strategies.
Flood Mitigation Strategies
DCR has outlined various preventative measures that can help reduce flood damage to properties, including:
- Storing important documents in waterproof containers and placing them on an upper floor.
- Caulking and sealing entry points around windows, doors, pipes, and wiring.
- Labeling propane tanks with the owner’s name and address for easier recovery.
- Choosing waterproof flooring over carpeting on lower levels to minimize damage.
Statewide Flood Preparedness Initiatives
With Virginia Flood Safety Awareness Week underway, state agencies are working to increase public awareness, encourage risk assessments, and promote mitigation efforts. Resources, including fact sheets and assessment tools, are available through the DCR’s Flood Awareness website to support these initiatives.
As flooding continues to be a significant challenge across Virginia, state officials aim to improve education, preparedness, and response efforts to mitigate future disasters.