Latest study reveals increased flooding risk for some Bay Area Waterways 
 

OAKLAND, Calif. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working with the city of Vallejo, Calif. to update flood hazard risk information.  FEMA has released preliminary flood maps that will help community officials, local individuals and business owners identify known flood risks.  When finalized, the maps will be used for flood insurance, land use and development decisions.  The revised flood maps are digital, incorporating the latest available technology to identify flood risk based on detailed engineering models, decades of rainfall and storm gauge information, and current topographic data.

Flooding is the most common disaster in the United States, so individuals and business owners near Chabot Lake, Blue Rock Springs Creek, Lake Dalwigk, Lemon Street Canal, Magazine Street Canal, Miller Ditch, and Rindler Creek and tributaries are urged to look at the preliminary flood maps to become familiar with flood risks.  These flood maps can help make informed decisions about flood insurance options and flood protection measures.

If individuals and business owners believe the preliminary flood maps contain errors, they may submit appeals by sharing scientific or technical information through their community officials for FEMA review.  Once all appeals are resolved, FEMA will make any necessary updates and notify community officials of any further changes.  Floodplain administrators in each community have copies of the maps available for public viewing.

For more information about flood insurance, premium estimates or to find a local agent, visit www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-888-379-9531.

For specific questions about flood maps and FEMA’s flood hazard mapping program, call 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-6267), email FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com or visit http://msc.fema.gov.