Citizens can prepare now for increased flooding expected in some areas of the country as a result of the potential for spring or fall flooding in Missouri.
"It is less expensive to protect homes and property before they are damaged than to repair them afterwards," said. "We hope that increased awareness of the possible flooding will encourage people to take measures to reduce possible damage in the future."
State Emergency Management Agency Director, Ronald M. Reynolds, urges citizens to protect their property by purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is available to residents of communities that agree to adopt and enforce sound floodplain management practices. To find out whether a community is participating in the NFIP program, homeowners can call the NFIP general information toll-free hotline, 1-800-638-6620.
Other flood protection measures may include: