No — storm surge flooding is not covered by hurricane or homeowners insurance, even if the flooding is directly caused by a hurricane. Storm surge is classified as flood damage, which requires a separate NFIP or private flood insurance policy. This distinction has led to billions of dollars in uninsured losses in major hurricanes including Katrina (2005), Harvey (2017), Ian (2022), and Helene (2024). If you live in a coastal area, flood insurance is essential — not optional.
Purchase flood insurance well before hurricane season to avoid the 30-day NFIP waiting period. Get a flood insurance quote or read our coverage guides: Florida | North Carolina | Georgia.
