Yavapai News

Why Update the Flood Hazard Maps
In cooperation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the City of Prescott (City) has been working on an update of the City’s flood hazard maps (flood maps). This effort uses the latest flood modeling approaches and digital mapping technologies, along with updated data. Known officially as Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), the flood maps provide detailed, property-specific flood risk data. This data helps residents and business owners better understand their risk of flooding and guide building and flood insurance decisions.

The current flood maps were based on topographic mapping data from 2008. Since then, the City received updated aerial topographic mapping data. They identified big differences between the two datasets and saw the need to update the flood maps. Using this updated data, the City remapped the floodplain for about nine linear miles of streams. As a result, the updated flood maps now more accurately represent the current flood risk. More information about the project can be found here.

How Residents and Businesses Are Affected

While most property owners will see no change, some property owners will find that their flood risk may have increased or decreased. As a result, some property owners with mortgages will face a change in flood insurance requirements when the updated maps become effective. Property owners seeking to build or to substantially add to existing buildings may face a change in permitting and construction requirements. To see how your flood risk may have changed, visit https://prescott-az.gov/floodmap/.

Before the Updated Maps Become Effective: Public Comment and Review

The updated flood maps are not final yet. To give residents and business owners an opportunity to view the preliminary maps in-person, the City is holding a Flood Risk Open House:

April 1, 4:00-7:00 pm

Flood Risk Open House

Rowle B Simmons Community Center

1280 E Rosser Street

Prescott, AZ

Later this spring, FEMA will hold a 90-day public comment period. This gives property owners an opportunity to submit objections to the information shown on the preliminary maps or in the accompanying study. Objections can be in the form of an appeal or comment.

If no appeals and comments are received that change the map, the new maps will become effective 30 days after the end of the 90-day appeal period. Building and flood insurance requirements will change then too.

Stay Informed

Knowing when and where map changes are occurring allows you to be properly prepared to make important decisions. Prepare by staying in contact with local officials and periodically visiting this project website. Questions can be directed to the Floodplain Administrator by calling (928) 777-1130 during business hours or emailing FloodplainAdministrationGroup@prescott-az.gov. Contact your local insurance agent to learn more about flood insurance and your options or visit www.FloodSmart.gov.

Original source can be found here.