Residents in states hit by Hurricane Helene who had coverage through the federal flood insurance program but let it lapse before the storm hit may be able to renew it and still be covered from the impact.

Rising temperatures intensify drought and increase costs for the heavily subsidized crop insurance program.

HOUSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency is extending the grace period to renew flood insurance policies from 30 to 120 days. This move is to provide relief to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) customers who may be experiencing financial hardships during the coronavirus pandemic. The extension applies to flood insurance policies with an expiration date between February 13 to June 15. Typically, customers have a 30-day grace period to renew policies. We hope this extension will give policyholders some peace of mind and allow them extra time to renew their policies to ensure they are covered should a flood loss occur.”To renew flood insurance policies or resolve an underpayment, policyholders can contact their insurance carriers or call the National Flood Insurance Program Call Center at (877)336-2627.