Alternative to the Iowa FAIR Plan

Iowa is not part of “Tornado Alley,” but its close proximity makes it a high-risk state for tornadoes and severe weather, particularly in the western, southwestern, and eastern region of the state.

The Hawkeye State is no stranger to violent storms and tornadic activity during spring and early summer. Between 1950 and 1995, the average number of tornadoes in Iowa was around 31 each year but the number has increased to an average of slightly more than 50 tornadoes per year.

Every region of the state is at risk of experiencing a tornado at some point, but some of the most at-risk counties are along the Highway 20 corridor and other areas south of the corridor. The counties include Delaware, Buchanan, Linn, Benton, and Black Hawk.

In 2017, March and June were peak months for tornado activity, but about 47 percent of strong tornadoes occur in the eastern part of Iowa between May 4th and 10th.

In 1968, Iowa experienced some of the worst tornadic activity in the state’s history. Two F5 tornadoes hit parts of eastern Iowa, with one storm staying on the ground for 65 miles with a width of four football fields.

Over 300 homes were destroyed, over 350 homes sustained minor damage, and debris from Charles City was found 80 miles away. Traveling debris is a perfect example of how neighboring

communities can experience damage, even if they don’t have a tornado.

While the tornadoes occurred over 50 years ago, the same kind of damage could still happen today. Before the tornado hit, the siren only worked for 15 seconds before losing power. While there were 13 fatalities related to the storms, the number could have been higher.

Thunderstorms are just as prevalent as tornadoes and hail, or high wind can cause structural damage or destroy crops in many of the open areas.

Winter months in Iowa bring below freezing temperatures, which can pose a threat to homes, particularly when the cold temperatures sustain for a long stretch. Iowa also has moderate snowfall, which often includes freezing rain.

Flooding can occur during spring but is more of an issue during the mid to late summer months.

Rising water effects areas in the state where the topography is flat and close to rivers and other waterways.

Residents in these parts of the state may participate in sandbagging and other practices to help reduce the damage due to flood waters.

Many residents of Iowa may be unaware that there are other options for protecting their assets.

The private insurance marketplace is one example of an alternative to the Iowa FAIR Plan. Before choosing the FAIR Plan as your last option, research options that are more budget-friendly with high-quality coverage.