Connecticut has become the first state to offer a free online tool that enables residents and businesses to assess their property’s risk from flooding, wildfires, and other weather-related catastrophes.
The new tool, created in partnership by the Connecticut Insurance Department and climate risk data and analytics provider First Street, uses interactive maps and risk-rating reports that can detail potential climate-related exposure based on a street address. The new tool was designed following the sudden flooding that ravaged parts of western Connecticut during a major rainfall in August 2024.
“Many of the affected property owners did not have flood insurance because they did not believe they were at risk,” said CID Commissioner Andrew N. Mais. “Homeowner’s insurance policies traditionally do not cover flood damage, yet nearly half of all flood damage occurs outside FEMA-designated flood zones. Providing residents with clear, property-specific information is a critical step in helping people understand and prepare for the risks we face today.”
“Climate risk is a reality today, not tomorrow,” added Matthew Eby, founder and CEO of First Street. “With natural disasters on the rise, we want to help people make smarter, more informed decisions about insurance, preparedness, and long-term resilience. The way to make that happen is by offering them science-backed, peer-reviewed data about their exposure.”
