The U.S. federal flood insurance program has ground to a halt amid an ongoing government shutdown, leaving homeowners vulnerable during peak hurricane season. The program, which underpins $70 billion in annual economic activity, has suspended policy renewals and new applications, raising alarms for residents in high-risk areas like Florida.
With the shutdown entering its second week, the timing could hardly be worse. Florida residents—still reeling from recent storms—now face heightened uncertainty as the Atlantic hurricane season reaches its most active phase. Local officials warn that delayed insurance approvals could slow recovery efforts and destabilize housing markets.
The freeze also impacts businesses and investors with coastal properties, many of whom rely on federal coverage to secure loans and mitigate financial risks. Analysts note that prolonged disruption could ripple through construction, real estate, and tourism sectors.
CGTN's Nitza Soledad Perez reports from Miami that community leaders are urging bipartisan action to restore critical services. Meanwhile, climate researchers emphasize the growing economic stakes of flood preparedness as extreme weather events intensify across Asia and beyond.
