PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Nicholas County and the City of Richwood, West Virginia. Community stakeholders are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials as a result of the June 2016 flooding disaster. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around Aug. 6, 2020. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
- 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 the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1yzGz4
For more information about the flood maps:
· Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon)
· Contact a FEMA Mapping and Insurance specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-336-2627 or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. 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, visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov
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