Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Essex County, Massachusetts. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place. Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.
The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around Aug. 28, 2023. The affected communities in Essex County, Massachusetts are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register.
Residents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
* An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
* Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
* If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information - such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary - they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:
* FEMA Map Service Center
* Preliminary Map Products Download Page
* Flood Map Changes Viewer
More information:
Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting www.floodsmart.gov.
Source: Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency