Minnesota sits inland, which tends to reduce the threat of damage from hurricanes. Additionally, Minnesota tends to see some of the lowest levels of seismic activity in the nation. Thus, it’s tempting to
think that Minnesota is not prone to natural disasters. However, this is not the case.
One of the most significant threats to Minnesota is wind. Whereas wind storms can be easier to predict in coastal states, it’s quite challenging to predict Minnesota’s wind storms. These wind storms, although brief, tend to be quite intense and volatile.
The 1998 St. Peter tornado featured a path that was a mile wide, resulting in tremendous damage. Minnesota was in the way of the tornado outbreak sequence that occurred from May 22 – 31, 2008.
During this time, scientists confirmed nearly 240 tornados. One person in Hugo was killed as a result of the tornado activity.
Minnesota homes are also quite prone to flooding. Many river valleys exist in the state. The spring season tends to bring high volumes of rain, resulting in significant snow melt. Fortunately, scientists tend to be able to predict when the damage will be the worst, and they’ll provide homeowners with a heads-up. However, if homeowners have not already taken steps to protect their homes from floods, it
could be too little too late.
Furthermore, Minnesota tends to see massive flash flooding. Unlike spring flooding, which scientists can predict, flash flooding is practically unpredictable. Flash flooding occurs with little to no advanced notice. It also takes place in smaller areas. Flash flooding typically occurs when drain systems are overtaxed.
As we mentioned, Minnesota is quite prone to snow melt as well. That’s because the state tends to see above-average snowfall each year, suffering from intense cold as well. Areas along Lake Superior
routinely receive around six feet of snow each winter. Minneapolis also sees an average temperature of a mere 15.6 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter.
The Minnesota FAIR Plan seeks to provide basic property insurance to those who live in the states most high-risk environmental areas. If applicants cannot find coverage in the standard market place, then the FAIR plan could be a viable alternative.
However, even then, applicants should not settle. The private market offers numerous alternatives to the Minnesota FAIR Plan. Homeowners could potentially see more extensive coverage and more affordable rates when choosing an alternative to the Minnesota FAIR Plan.