A recent study found that flooding occurrences in and around Miami Beach have increased dramatically during the past 10 years. Due in part to environmental changes and accelerating sea levels, homeowners could see their homes at an unusually high risk for disaster. The following can explain the reasoning behind the study and how you can protect your home and valuables.
Alarming Study by the University of Miami
Homeowners realize the importance of keeping their dwellings, appliances, heating and cooling units and valuables safe and protected. In the event of an emergency, they may even rely on their home insurance policy to get them through a disaster. But based on a recent study by the University of Miami Rosentiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, Southern Florida has seen a significant rise in sea-levels. Global projections, residents and community officials can better prepare for what Mother Nature may throw their way by paying attention to this important study. The researchers came to the conclusions by analyzing rain gauges and tide records, insurance claims, media reports and flood events in Miami that date back to 2006. They were able to pinpoint specific dates of the flooding by pouring over media reports and insurance claims. The results are real and proving to affect the daily lives of residents in low-lying coastal neighborhoods such as Miami.
New Evidence
Time is of the essence during an emergency and flood water extraction can prevent hazardous situations from worsening in your household. These include the buildup of mold, rotted wood, mildew and property destruction. Flood water extraction, water damage restoration, emergency water extraction and structural drying can begin the healing process by removing water from the areas affected by the flooding. The frequency of flooding in the Miami Beach area has gradually increased after 2006. This is primarily due to the high-tide flooding occurrences. There is also new evidence showing the connection between the rising sea-level and weakening Gulf Stream along the coast of the Atlantic. Because of its low elevation and high population, Florida is extremely vulnerable to the rising sea level. Many coastal communities are experiencing the vulnerability by way of increased flooding after a storm. The future outlook appears just as bleak. Global temperatures hit record highs 11 months consecutively. That's faster than what the experts figured for the area. The Arctic has also seen its share of global warming, and it appears to only be getting worse instead of better.
Help for Flood Prone Roads
There is help for some flood prone roads thanks to the Florida Department of Transportation and Miami Beach. The two are willing to split the expenses of a new pump station and seawall along flood-prone areas of the community. Estimate figures the improvements to run close to $25 million for sections along Indian Creek Drive. Last season, the area gained widespread attention in the media when the roadway flooded. Nearby streets could also benefit from the improvements as it could help keep them dry.
What You Can Do to Prevent Your Home From Flooding
You can do your part to lower your costs and reduce your chances of flooding with the following:
- Most homeowners fail to get homeowners insurance. Speak to your insurance provider and add a rider in your current policy. In the case of flooding or rising sea levels, you'll have coverage in case of a disaster.
- Keep the number of a water extraction service on hand. If an emergency occurs, you can call the professionals for immediate assistance.
- Place your valuables stored high. This include family photos, birth certificates, yearbooks, tax records, bank statements and house records.
- Raise or flood proof your electrical boxes, furnace, hot water heater and air condition units.
- Check your gutters and downspouts to ensure that they are operating and clear of debris.
- Develop an emergency evacuation plan for your family and pets.
