Prepare for a Flood

Learn how to

A few hours of preparation can make a big difference

For those of us who live and work in the low-lying areas along the Columbia River, the local levees do a lot to reduce the risk of flooding. But no levee can ever provide 100% protection, which means it’s up to each of us to be prepared for a flood. A few hours spent making your home or place of business secure, preparing an emergency kit, and creating a flood plan can make a big difference. Here are some resources to help you prepare before a flood.

Remember

Standard homeowner and renter’s insurance does not cover flooding
Depending on your location, you may be eligible for low-cost flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). To get more information on flood insurance, please visit www.FloodSmart.gov or call the NFIP Help Center at 800-427- 4661.

The NFIP is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program makes federally-backed flood insurance available for participating communities in exchange for local agreement to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA’s requirements to reduce the risk of flooding. A part of this agreement includes that in areas with levees, the levees must be “accredited” through FEMA, which means they meet specific flood safety standards.

Although our local levee system is not currently certified, the system is still accredited by FEMA at this time. We are working closely with local and federal partners to recertify the local levee system and maintain FEMA accreditation.

an icon to represent flooding
Additional
RESOURCES