While many people expect outside financial help when flooding occurs, there is actually very little offered, warns Uintah County Emergency Manager Tal Ehlers. Spring runoff is expected to cause flooding across the Basin and Duchesne and Uintah County officials are urging all residents to personally prepare now to protect their own property. “Residents need to check their homeowners insurance,” shares Ehlers. “Most do not cover flooding and they may want to talk to an agent regarding the National Flood Insurance Program. People should find out now what their insurance covers.” Ehlers also explains that many people think if there is widespread flooding that disaster relief funds will be available but that will not be the case. Even when many citizens experience property damage, it does not come anywhere near qualifying for a disaster declaration. Snowfall received so far this winter is over 200 percent what is considered normal for snowpack and emergency response leaders throughout the Basin are working with local businesses to ensure the public can purchase all the supplies they will need to prepare to protect their own homes and property. All Basin residents are urged to take advantage of the time to prepare now to avoid disaster later.
