As winter wraps up the temperature will rise which can bring rapid snowmelt.  The ground will still be frozen so the water will have nowhere to go. The melting snow and rainwater will run off into lakes, streams and rivers rather than being absorbed in the ground.  The excess water spills over the banks of the streams, lakes and rivers.  This overflow of water is what leads to spring flooding.  A spring thaw can produce a vast amount of runoff in a very short period of time.  One cubic foot of snow that accumulates during the winter contains roughly one gallon of water.  Heavy rains, snow melts, ice jams and flash flooding all increase the flood risk at this time of year. 

Please remember, typically there is a 30-day waiting period before a policy goes into effect.  It is very important to have your insurance in place prior to the beginning of the spring flood season.  The average flood policy varies in cost, if you are in a high risk area expect to pay more but if you are at a low to moderate risk the rate will be lower. It is well worth the money if you are living in a neighborhood that is subject to floods.  Just an inch of water can cause extensive damage to your property.