2024 Flood Awareness Week

Starting today, Volusia County, in collaboration with the Florida Floodplain Managers Association, the State of Florida, and other local governments, will actively participate in the 2024 Flood Awareness Week, taking place March 4-10. This week-long event is designed to further increase community awareness about the risks associated with flooding and educate residents on protecting both life and property from flood-related hazards.

Throughout Flood Awareness Week, Volusia County Emergency Management will utilize its social media outlets to highlight various flood-related topics and offer essential safety tips. Each day will feature different aspects of flood preparedness and mitigation, aiming to equip the community with the knowledge to navigate flood risks effectively.

A key focus of Flood Awareness Week is to underscore the critical need for flood insurance. Homeowners, especially new ones, may mistakenly believe that their standard insurance policies cover flood damage, not realizing that a separate flood insurance policy is often necessary. As hurricane season approaches, this is the opportune time to explore and secure flood insurance in advance. Flood insurance policies typically require a month to activate, presenting a timely opportunity for homeowners to prepare.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) rewards communities that actively engage in floodplain management and promote flood awareness with federally subsidized flood insurance. Due to Volusia County Emergency Management's committed efforts, as documented in the Floodplain Management Plan Progress Report, residents and businesses in unincorporated areas receive a 25% discount on their flood insurance premiums through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

All residents are encouraged to follow both the County’s primary and the Emergency Management Division's social media channels. This engagement will offer updates on flood preparedness throughout the week and serve as a vital information resource in emergencies. Additionally, for detailed information on protecting properties with flood insurance from FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program, residents may visit www.floodsmart.gov.