Connecticut works to raise flood awareness after recent storms
Flood Awareness Week 2026
State officials say the message is simple but important: Flooding can happen when it rains—sometimes in places people don’t expect. The goal of CT’s flood awareness week is to help residents understand their flood risk and exposure, and then consider whether they should have flood insurance.
Heavy Rainfall on the Rise
As the climate continues to warm, the likelihood of heavy rain events is increasing. According to the nonprofit organization Climate Central, the Hartford area has seen a 13% increase in rainfall intensity since 1970.
That trend is contributing to more frequent and severe flooding across Connecticut.
“We really want to change that messaging so people can understand you don’t have to be in a flood zone to flood,” said George Bradner with the Connecticut Insurance Department.
Lessons From the August 2024 Floods
Bradner pointed to the devastating floods of August 2024 as a key example. Many of the properties destroyed by flooding rains were not located within FEMA-designated flood risk zones.
“Everyone was like, ‘I thought my policy covered flood. I didn’t know I was in a flood zone,’” Bradner said.
Because standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flooding, many homeowners were left without coverage.
“That’s why the state is trying to raise awareness about flood risk and exposure,” Bradner said. “Most of the storms that have hit Connecticut have been flooding events where we’ve seen a tremendous amount of uninsured properties.”
How to Prepare Before the Next Storm
Bradner recommends residents use flood risk data from First Street Foundation to better understand their risk. From there, homeowners can decide how much coverage they want and shop around for flood insurance policies.
“You’re better off making sure you’re prepared now and not wait until you see the storm coming and say, ‘Hey, I’m going to go get flood insurance,’” he said.
Why Timing Matters
With living expenses already rising, flood insurance may feel like another annual bill. However, state officials say it could be worth the cost for those looking to protect their home and belongings.
The Connecticut Insurance Department also notes that flood insurance policies typically take about 30 days to go into effect—meaning coverage won’t help if it’s purchased right before a storm.
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