floodzones

New Preliminary Flood Zone Maps, possible changes of mandatory Flood Insurance requirements for federally insured mortgages

Brevard County is participating in the nationwide effort by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to replace the old system of paper-based flood zone maps with new "Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps," or DFIRMs. Modern aerial mapping methods, using laser measurements and computer modeling, have created the opportunity for much more accurate maps.

For some homeowners and business owners this may be of importance as the new maps may include a change in flood risk classification for your property and changes in flood risk classification may affect your mortgage loan requirements.

GOOD NEWS, approximately 2000 structures have been removed from the Special Flood Hazard Area in Palm Bay. Most of these are in the western section of the City, where several thousand vacant parcels have also been removed from the special Flood Hazard Area and the requirement to carry flood insurance to get a federally insured mortgage. Home owners would qualify for a Preferred Risk Flood Insurance Policy if they choose.

Changes presented on the new maps are based on a study FEMA recently completed using updated flood models and base flood elevation data. However the maps are regarded as "preliminary" until the appeal process concludes and the adoption process is completed in approximately 6-9 months.

FEMA representatives from Atlanta will be at the open house to answer all Flood Insurance related questions.

OPEN HOUSE DATE: Tuesday, February 7, 2012
LOCATION: Palm Bay City Council Chambers, 120 Malabar Rd
TIME: 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Also Open houses will be held Mon., Feb. 6th at Viera at the County Complex and Weds. Feb. 8th in Titusville.

For assistance, contact Jim Williams, CFM, Flood Plain Administrator, at (321) 733-3042 or email floodzone@palmbayflorida.org.       

Historically, even during major storm events, there has been little structural flood damage in Palm Bay.  We have the Indian River Lagoon on our eastern boundary and the St. Johns River and Marsh to the west that poses flood hazards during severe rain events.

The City is working continuously to minimize flood risks to you, your loved ones, and property.  We want to make you aware of flood hazards and what can be done to minimize these conditions.

Our staff of Professional Engineers, Flood Plain Manager, and drainage experts have received special training that makes them a resource for you. They know how to interpret the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) to assess your risk, they can help inspect your property to identify potential weaknesses that increase your risk of flood damage, and they can provide recommendations on things that can be done.

      Additional information:

Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. Why? The main reason is people underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in automobiles as they are swept downstream. Of these drownings, many are preventable, but too many people continue to drive around the barriers that warn you the road is flooded. Whether you are driving or walking, if you come to a flooded road, Turn Around Don't Drown. You will not know the depth of the water nor will you know the condition of the road under the water.

For assistance, contact Jim Williams, CFM, Flood Plain Administrator, at (321) 733-3042 or email floodzone@palmbayflorida.org.         

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