FEMA Releases new flood hazard maps

CLAY COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) - New preliminary flood hazard maps for Clay County have been released by FEMA.

The new maps show flood risk throughout the county and determine whether property owners, with a federal or federally insured loan, are required to carry flood insurance. The flood maps have not been updated in 32 years.

The flood insurance rate maps identify property as having high, moderate or low flood risk. In addition to affecting property owners, it allows county officials to decide if putting up new structures in certain areas is a good idea.

A 90-day public comment period will start at a date to be announced by FEMA after the public meeting. During that period, property owners can submit appeals and protests.

Once the feedback is received and addressed, the maps are expected to be adopted in 2011, when the new insurance requirements will take effect.

The preliminary maps may be viewed at: http://www.floodmaps.IN.gov/