What distinguishes an 'indirect' flood damage, such as business interruption, from a 'direct' flood damage like property loss?

Direct flood damage refers to the immediate, physical harm inflicted upon assets and properties by the floodwaters themselves. This means the damage is a first-order consequence, directly resulting from the water's physical contact, force, or inundation. For example, when floodwaters enter a building, the ruined furniture, water-logged electronics, damaged structural components like walls or floors, or a collapsed foundation are all instances of direct flood damage. This type of damage is typically tangible, observable at the site, and caused by the direct interaction with the flood event. It is the destruction or alteration of property that occurs during the actual flooding. A property loss, such as a water-soaked basement or a car swept away by currents, clearly illustrates this immediate physi....