Idaho is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It borders six states and the Canadian province of British Columbia. Its landscape spans mountains, forests, and farmland, marking it as a diverse geographical area with a wide variety of risks that could cause claims and high risk homeowners insurance. The state's capital and largest city is Boise. Historically, Idaho was part of the Oregon Country, a disputed territory among the U.S., the United Kingdom, Russia, and Spain. It became part of the U.S. after the Oregon Treaty in 1846 and was designated as the Idaho Territory in 1863. Idaho was admitted to the Union on July 3, 1890, as the 43rd state.
The types of risks in Idaho that could lead to home insurance losses include:
Natural Disasters: Idaho experiences a variety of natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and severe storms. These events can cause significant damage to homes and property.
Wildfires:
Due to its vast forested areas, Idaho is particularly susceptible to wildfires, especially during dry and hot seasons.
Floods:
Spring thaws and heavy rainfalls can lead to flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Earthquakes:
Idaho is part of the Intermountain Seismic Belt and has experienced several earthquakes over the years.
Severe Storms:
Idaho can experience severe weather, including heavy snowfall, hail, and windstorms, which can damage roofs, windows, and other structures.
Some specific examples of large events in Idaho in recent history that have led to a high volume of home insurance claims include:
Teton Dam Collapse (1976):
This event was one of the largest disasters in Idaho's history. The collapse of the earthen dam led to widespread flooding, resulting in significant property damage and loss of life.
Wildfires:
Large-scale wildfires, such as the Mustang Complex fire in 2012 and the Clearwater Complex fire in 2015, resulted in massive property damage and numerous insurance claims.
Floods:
Idaho has experienced several significant floods over the years, including those resulting from rapid snowmelt and heavy rains.
Earthquakes:
The 1983 Borah Peak earthquake, which was the largest in Idaho's history, caused considerable damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Understanding the risks specific to Idaho and the history of major events can help homeowners and insurance providers better prepare for potential losses.