Idaho, with a population of 1.7 million, is ranked the 40th largest state with the population spread out across the state leading to a fairly low population density. Idaho, called the "Gem State," is known for its natural beauty. As with many states, that natural beauty comes with a higher risk of many types of issues that can lead to homeowners insurance claims.
Idaho is prone to wildfires, flooding, lightning storms, and often frigid weather. The fire season in Idaho starts in June and runs until September with an average of about 110 to 120 fires a year. Fire marshals in the state urge home owners who live in wildland urban interfaces to create at least 30 feet of defensible space and be vigilant about maintaining trees, brushes and other landscaping to avoid destruction of property, the ensuing insurance claims and protect peoples lives.
Flooding is typically at a higher risk in eastern and north central Idaho, where many basins have seen higher than average snowpack in recent years. The Snake River and tributaries of north of Idaho Falls are areas of a particularly higher risk but thankfully they are not densely populated. Regardless of that, flooding can occur anywhere and at any time with the right combination of elements.
While severe weather is a risk throughout the year in Idaho, the state has some of the lowest annual tornado activity with less than 5 per year. However, straight line winds and hail can cause as much or often more property damage as they are more frequent but are thankfully still considerably less frequent than most of the United States. Property damage however remains low due to the thinly spread population and structures. Homeowners cannot control natural disasters that may happen around them but homeowners are strongly encouraged to mitigate these high risk issues.
A FAIR Plan insurance pool has not yet been assigned to this state likely due to the lack of high risk factors present in the state. Thanks to an extremely competitive marketplace, homeowners in Idaho have some of the lowest rates in the country. As time goes on, depending on the claim volume, the insurance market will continue to respond to the events that cause insurance claims and mitigating the potential for loss will continue to become more important to keep property protected and insurance premiums low.