Ohio has experienced significant flooding recently, particularly in central Ohio during August 2026this past month. Heavy rainfall over multiple days led to flash flooding, road closures, water rescues, and flood warnings. Some notable impacts this month included: 

• Between 4 and 7 inches of rain fell in parts of Franklin and Licking counties, causing significant flooding. 
• Other areas hit hard were Pataskala, Reynoldsburg, Hebron/Buckeye Lake, and parts of Columbus. Residents experienced flooding substantial enough to cause property damage, infrastructure impacts, and potentially expensive long-term repairs. Comprehensive damage totals have not yet been released. 
• Major roads, including portions of Interstate 71, were temporarily closed because of floodwater. 
• Gov. Mike DeWine declared states of emergency in several counties earlier in August due to severe flooding from repeated storms. 

X zones shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to floods 

Clients in X zones may not be required by their lender to carry flood insurance, but that doesn’t mean they’re exempt from flood loss. FEMA and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) data continue to show that a meaningful share of flood claims (25%) come from properties outside high-risk flood zones. 

• Low risk is not no risk: Heavy rainfall, overwhelmed drainage systems, and saturated ground can create flooding almost anywhere. 
• Maps may not tell the whole story: Outdated flood maps, new development, aging infrastructure, and changing water flow patterns can increase risk in areas previously considered less vulnerable. 
• The premium may be more manageable than expected: Many moderate-to-low-risk properties may qualify for more affordable flood coverage options, depending on the location, risk profile, and available market. 
• A quote helps protect both the client and the agency: Offering a flood quote gives clients the opportunity to make a fully informed decision and helps document that the exposure was discussed properly. 

Why this matters to your clients 

Flooding continues to be one of the most costly and misunderstood risks property owners face. Many clients are surprised to learn that a standard homeowners policy typically does not cover flood damage. When flooding occurs, expenses such as structural repairs, debris removal, mitigation work, and replacing damaged belongings can quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars. 

Now’s a great time to confirm you can access the Wright Flood agent portal and run a quote before the next storm reminds them why coverage matters. 

Wright Flood is here to help you and your clients 

Wright Flood has more than 40 years of experience exclusively in the flood insurance industry. With multiple coverage levels and affordable rates, Wright Flood provides you with the one-stop solutions you’ve been seeking. Wright Flood is the largest provider of flood insurance in the U.S. It’s a leading provider of NFIP policies as well as private options throughout Ohio, including our FocusFlood, NCIP, Hiscox, Chubb, Lloyd’s brokerage, and excess programs. 

Wright Flood has an A (Excellent) rating from AM Best and is widely recognized for its industry-specific knowledge, claims response, and long-standing commitment to partner with agents and policyholders, especially at the time of a flood loss. Wright Flood takes pride in user-friendly technology, exceptional claims reputation and providing the service customers deserve.  

Agents should always make flood insurance part of the coverage conversation, even when the property is in a low-to-moderate-risk area. Instead of simply advising that floods aren’t covered under a homeowners policy, mitigate your E&O exposure by providing a flood quote and allowing clients the option to decline coverage if they wish. Many of these low-risk (or moderate-risk) properties have been enjoying relatively low premiums. 

If you aren’t signed up to write with Wright Flood, now’s a great time to explore the opportunities for you and your clients. If you want to learn more, contact Courtney Longtin at courtney.longtin@weareflood.com or (727) 355-2318.