Flood Insurance Friday: Lessons From Recent Flood Disasters in 2025
Why These Floods Matter to You
Flooding isn’t just something that happens “somewhere else.” In 2025 alone, multiple U.S. communities — from Texas to Arizona — have faced devastating floods. These tragedies are reminders that no area is completely safe from flood risk, and that flood insurance and preparedness are more important than ever.
In this edition of Flood Insurance Friday, we’ll recap two major recent flood disasters, highlight key lessons for homeowners, and give you an action plan to protect your property.
Central Texas: July 2025 Flash Flood Catastrophe
Earlier this summer, parts of Central Texas were overwhelmed by torrential rain that stalled over the Hill Country. Within hours, rivers surged, roads vanished under water, and entire communities were cut off.
-
Death toll: Over 135 lives were lost, making it one of the deadliest inland floods in U.S. history.
-
Speed of disaster: The Guadalupe River rose drastically in under an hour, leaving little time for residents to react.
-
System breakdowns: Questions emerged over whether early warnings reached people quickly enough.
Key Lesson: Flash floods can strike without warning, even outside of “flood zones.” Early warning systems, preparation, and flood insurance are the only safety nets when water rises this fast.
Arizona: September 2025 Deadly Flash Floods
In late September, Arizona experienced severe flash flooding in Globe and Scottsdale. What seemed like a routine storm quickly turned deadly:
-
Fatalities: Four people lost their lives, including one person trapped in a submerged vehicle.
-
Cause: About 2.5 inches of rain in just 24 hours overwhelmed creeks and drainage systems.
-
Response: Cities declared emergencies as rescue crews battled dangerous, fast-moving water.
Key Lesson: Even desert states can suffer catastrophic floods when terrain and drainage systems are overwhelmed. Never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters — most flood fatalities happen this way.
The Bigger Picture: 2025 Is a Flood-Heavy Year
This year has already seen thousands of flash flood warnings nationwide — on track to surpass historical averages. With climate shifts increasing extreme rainfall and outdated infrastructure failing to keep up, experts warn that these events will only become more common.
Key Lesson: Don’t wait for the map to change or a disaster to hit your area. Flood insurance and mitigation steps are the best defenses against rising risk.
🛡️ What These Disasters Teach Us About Insurance
Here’s how recent events highlight the need for coverage clarity:
-
Coverage Gaps – Many homeowners don’t realize standard home insurance does not cover floods.
-
Deductibles Rising – Insurers are shifting more costs to homeowners; check yours carefully.
-
Mitigation Discounts – Elevating systems or adding flood vents may lower premiums.
-
Documentation Matters – Photos and records before and after storms make claims smoother.
-
Flood Maps Change – After major disasters, FEMA often redraws flood zones — affecting rates and requirements.
✅ Flood Insurance Friday Action Checklist
Here’s what you can do right now:
-
Review your flood insurance policy – Know what’s covered, excluded, and your deductible.
-
Check updated flood maps – Your zone may have changed.
-
Consider mitigation steps – Elevate HVAC, install flood vents, maintain drains.
-
Document your home – Take pre-storm photos and store them safely.
-
Sign up for alerts – Local flood warnings and apps can save lives.
Final Thoughts
From Texas to Arizona, 2025’s floods are reminders that disasters don’t wait for the “right” season or the “usual” places. The best time to prepare, insure, and protect your home is before the next flood warning goes out.
If you’d like help reviewing your options, comparing private vs. FEMA flood insurance, or simply making sure your family is protected, reach out — flood insurance that’s so good, it’s Good Good Flood.