Preliminary Flood Maps in Otero County, New Mexico Ready for Public View

Knowing flood risks allows for more informed decisions

DENTON, Texas –Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Otero County, New Mexico are encouraged to look over newly released preliminary flood maps in order to determine their flood risks and make informed decisions.

Local officials from Otero County, the state of New Mexico, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are presenting the preliminary maps to communities in order to help leaders and residents identify known flood risks and use that information to make decisions about buying flood insurance. The data also helps the community move forward with any future development.

“As we work together with our state and local partners to bring this critical information to the county, we ask that everyone review the maps to understand what flood risks are involved,” said R6 Regional Administrator Tony Robinson. “The role of the community as an active partner in the flood mapping process is very important.”

To view the new flood maps, please contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) or follow the links below:

• To view the preliminary maps online visit: http://maps.riskmap6.com/NM/Otero/

• To use a live chat service visit go.usa.gov/r6C.  Click on the “Live Chat” icon.
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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.

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