Riverside County residents in some flood-prone areas could get a financial break as El Niño concerns build in Southern California.

A new Federal Emergency Management Agency safety rating means eligible policyholders in unincorporated parts of the county can qualify for significantly cheaper flood insurance, offering some relief as households face growing weather-related risks, according to KESQ.

Here's what to know

The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District has reached Class 5 in FEMA's Community Rating System. 

Starting Oct. 1, qualifying National Flood Insurance Program policyholders in unincorporated Riverside County can get discounts of up to 25%.

Officials noted that the improved rating could reduce costs for eligible residents by more than $385,000 each year, or more than $1.9 million over five years.

Board Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor, underscored the milestone's significance.

"This new FEMA rating demonstrates the District's commitment to not only meeting, but exceeding, federal guidance for managing flood risk in our communities," Spiegel stated.

The change arrives as residents also prepare for a possible El Niño pattern that could bring wetter weather to Southern California.

More background

As Southern California households weigh rising weather-related costs, going solar is one of the best ways to save money on home energy. 

Palmetto is currently running an exclusive offer for Southern California residents that allows customers to save an average of 40% on their electric bills with $0 down.

FEMA's Community Rating System recognizes communities that work to reduce flood danger and strengthen floodplain management.

That advancement places Riverside County among the top 1% of National Flood Insurance Program communities nationwide.

County officials also encouraged residents in FEMA-mapped floodplains, as well as those with a history of flooding, to review whether their current insurance coverage is sufficient.

What can be done?

For people in unincorporated Riverside County, one practical move is to check in with an insurance agent or insurer about flood coverage following the change.

The discount is available for qualifying National Flood Insurance Program policies that are written or renewed beginning on Oct. 1.

Residents in mapped flood zones, or households that have experienced flooding before, should consider flood insurance instead of assuming a standard homeowners policy includes that protection.

Palmetto's special offer can help households free up budget room for insurance and other home costs. With Palmetto's help, the average Southern California resident can save 40% on their electric bills, which can add up to thousands of dollars per year. 

For Riverside County residents balancing utility bills alongside flood preparation costs, that kind of savings can make a meaningful difference.

District General Manager and Chief Engineer Jason Uhley addressed the timing.

"Achieving CRS Class 5 is especially significant as we enter an El Niño year. We encourage our residents to consider flood insurance if they live within a FEMA mapped floodplain or have a history of flooding," Uhley observed.

Where can I learn more?

For more on how California's insurance squeeze overlaps with flood risk, these stories dig into what homeowners are up against. They cover insurers pulling back from the market and the wider struggle to keep homeowners covered.

• In California, insurance companies are pulling back, leaving homeowners with fewer options.

• Across California, homeowners faced 400% insurance hikes as coverage grew harder to keep.

• In California, State Farm stopped offering coverage to some new homeowners.

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