10/09/2026
What should you know about Flood Insurance and Tropical Storm, Rachael:
Flood damage is typically not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy.
Rachel's potential impacts include flash and urban flooding from intense rainfall, coastal flooding and erosion from elevated surf and tides, and mud or debris flows near recent wildfire burn scars. Flooding can affect properties outside mapped high-risk flood zones, including inland neighborhoods where runoff, low points, or overwhelmed drainage systems allow water to collect.
Areas of greatest concern
Southern California coastal communities, including portions of San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties, may face coastal flooding, dangerous surf, rip currents, and beach erosion. Additional concern exists in low-lying areas, communities with poor drainage, foothill and mountain locations below burn scars, and inland or desert areas vulnerable to rapid runoff and flash flooding.
Forecast details may change as Rachel approaches. Please encourage customers to follow National Weather Service alerts and local emergency guidance. Use this event to review flood exposure throughout your book of business, including properties outside mapped high-risk flood zones. Flood coverage is not retroactive, and applicable waiting periods, eligibility rules, coverage terms, and binding restrictions should be reviewed before submitting an application.
Key flood concerns to discuss with customers
Heavy rain and rapid runoff may overwhelm streets, storm drains, and low-lying properties.
Coastal flooding, elevated tides, powerful surf, and erosion may affect exposed beaches and coastal communities.
Recent wildfire burn scars and steep slopes may be susceptible to fast-moving mud and debris flows.
Flooding may occur outside FEMA-designated high-risk flood zones and far from rivers or the coast.
Customers should identify low entry points, clear drainage where safe, move valuables, and prepare emergency supplies.
Pay close attention to local alerts if the property is near a burn scar, steep slope, coast, bay, lagoon, desert wash, or low-lying area.
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