HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While flooding is on everyone’s mind, insurance companies are busy dealing with other weather events.

The start of the severe storm season came two weeks ago with numerous tornado warnings and parts of the county pummeled with large hail. Insurance agent Deana Ackerman says they’ve had many insurance claims for hail damage, especially to vehicles. “We’ve been very busy … the majority of the storm was west of town, Nickerson and in that area,” Ackerman said. “We haven’t had a lot of hail damage reported here (in Hutchinson).”

Ackerman also says many homes in the area are being inundated by floodwater either from water forcing its way into basements or simply too much water alongside homes. Ackerman says many people still do not understand that flooding is usually not covered by standard insurance. “Unfortunately, floodwater is not covered under your homeowner policy. It’s only covered if you have flood policy through the federal government,” Ackerman said. While homes are not covered by regular insurance in a flood, vehicles are. Along with the claims for hail, Ackerman says they are getting claims for flooded vehicles.

Area home restoration companies are booked well out in advance because of the number of basements that are being flooded. If you find out your basement is flooded, never attempt to enter the water unless you can completely cut off all electrical service to the home from upstairs.

If you can’t cut off service, make sure you hire an electrician to do it for you.