FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) has updated flood maps for Pinellas County showing which areas are now at risk of flooding during a major storm.
According to the Agency, the updated Flood Insurance Rate Map (or FIRM) indicates a property’s high, moderate or low flood risk. FEMA says the updated FIRM shows flooding hazards more accurately.
Tampa Bay’s ABC Action News quotes Pinellas County Commission Chairman Kenneth Welch as saying, “The modernization of outdated flood maps represents an important step toward increasing public safety.”
Property owners should look at the new FIRM to find out if their property’s flood risk is higher or lower than previously designated. FEMA says if an owner’s risk level changes then their flood insurance rates and requirements may change as well.
To find out if YOUR property’s flood zone designation has changed… click HERE.