Residents Urged To Review Updated County Flood Maps

In support of the National Flood Insurance Program, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has undertaken a national effort called Flood Map Modernization to produce more reliable flood risk data. Advances in geographic information systems, surveying and mapping have been utilized to convert the existing Flood Insurance Rate Maps to a more accurate and reliable digital format that will revise the limits of the Special Flood Hazard Area in portions of incorporated and unincorporated St. Lucie County.

New maps for St. Lucie County will become effective Feb. 16, 2012. The St. Lucie County’s Public Works Department is urging residents to check where their homes and businesses are located on the new maps. Changes to the maps could cause your flood zone designation and elevation requirements to change.

These changes could affect the cost to purchase flood hazard insurance. To view the new maps please visit: http://gis.stlucieco.gov/floodmapper. Please visit: http://www.stlucieco.gov/public_works/FEMA_Flood_Map_Update.htm to learn more about the new maps and savings on flood insurance that may be available.

A Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is a risk assessment tool used to help determine the different flooding risks in a community. The highest risk mapped, a Special Flood Hazard Area, is the area having a 1 percent chance of flooding in any given year (also referred to as the 100-year floodplain). The maps are used by lenders, insurance agents and local government for flood risk assessment, floodplain management, land use and emergency planning.

If you have questions about the Flood Insurance Rate Maps contact St. Lucie County Water Quality Manager Christopher Lestrange at 772-462-2767.