December 02, 2011
By: Jana Bell
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is urging residents in Oklahoma's Woodward County to purchase flood insurance coverage during the next few weeks before new flood maps go into effect.
Flood damage, which isn't included in a standard home insurance policy, is sold by private insurers through the National Flood Insurance Program, and may be required by mortgage lenders for properties in designated flood areas.
FEMA says Woodward County residents who purchase coverage before January 18 - when new flood maps become effective - may be able to "grandfather" their area's current flood rating and save money.
"While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance," said FEMA Region 6 administrator Tony Russell. "The reason is simple: You don't have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood."
The county has seen severe flooding in the past. In 2008, it was one of 10 Oklahoma counties to receive federal aid after being declared major disaster areas following a string of severe storms.
For more about flood insurance you can visit: Flood Smart
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