State says residents effected by Wallow Fire should look into federal flood insurance

Arizona Division of Emergency Management State Emergency Operations Center

From the ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY AND MILITARY AFFAIRS

Preparation for flooding should begin immediately following Wallow Fire

PHOENIX—Residents affected by the Wallow Fire may think the worst is over after the flames are extinguished but without proper preparation, a flooding disaster can be around the corner.

Wildfire alters the landscape in ways that increase water and mud runoff in burned areas. Under normal circumstances, the forest floor drains, dissipates and absorbs water effectively enough to reduce flooding downstream. Burned forest areas are more unstable and less able to hold water, collecting downstream with increased velocity and often resulting in urban and flash flooding.

This is why it pays to have flood insurance. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage but most agents who sell homeowner’s insurance also can sell federal flood insurance policies. Detailed information about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is available at

A phone call to the NFIP referral center at

It takes 30 days for an NFIP policy to go into effect after it is purchased, and with Arizona’s monsoon season rapidly approaching, now is the time to consider buying flood insurance.

Flood insurance is also available to renters to cover their belongings, and businesses, which can cover properties and contents. Residents and business owners in flood hazard zones, known as floodplains, may be required to carry flood insurance by their lender.

Although many tribes in Arizona do not participate in the NFIP, those tribes are encouraged contact FEMA directly for more information on the process to become eligible. FloodSmart.gov on the Internet. (888) 379-9531 will connect directly with a program representative who can provide local insurance agents and mail a program brochure.