Federal, State and Local Partners Team Up to Identify Texas Coastal Flood Risks: Storm surge study provides update on flood risks in Galveston and…

DENTON, Texas – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is updating flood maps in Galveston and Matagorda, Texas counties following the release of a new, comprehensive storm surge study that gives updated information on coastal flood risks.

As FEMA works to update the new flood maps, the agency is working closely with its federal, state and local partners to help these coastal communities better understand the current flood risk so that action can be taken to reduce that risk.

Meetings with local officials have already taken place and open houses for the general public are currently being scheduled.  The local workshops provided an opportunity for local officials to review the storm surge study methods and get an update on the project’s progress.  The open houses will help to educate the public about the current flood risk in the area. Public meetings will be posted on www.txchart.com.

The Texas-based coastal flood mapping effort is part of FEMA’s comprehensive approach to integrating flood hazard identification and analysis with risk communications for affected coastal counties. In addition to the Galveston and Matagorda counties, the effort also includes Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Harris, Jackson, Jefferson, Kleberg, Nueces, Orange, Refugio, San Patricio, Victoria and Willacy.

Once a flood risk is identified, the next step is to consider the purchase of a flood policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  The NFIP is currently undergoing a thorough modernization. 

Meanwhile, contacting a local insurance agent is the first step to gather information about insurance.  Folks can visit www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-888-379-9531 to locate an agent in their area.

Media note:  If media would like to join an online, informational briefing beginning at 11.a.m. (CST) on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013, please call us at 940-898-5454 for details.

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