FEMA Issues New Flood Insurance Rate Map For Parts of County

Santa Barbara County residents are being advised to attend an open house event to discuss local flood risk and updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) issued by FEMA.

The meeting will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 9 in the county Planning Commission Hearing Room, 123 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara.

The map gives updated information about the community's flood risk.

As a result of the map changes, some properties may be included in a high-risk flood zone, known as the Special Flood Hazard Area, for the first time. This could potentially necessitate the purchase of flood insurance for the affected property owners.

The FEMA FIRM is used to identify areas that may require mandatory flood insurance coverage. It also helps community members choose how to protect themselves, their properties, and their belongings from future flood events.

The map and the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report are the basis for each community's floodplain management.

The open house offers community members a chance to talk with experts and federal and local officials. Local residents can also examine their flood risk; understand potential changes to flood insurance rates and requirements; and consider strategies for preparation and protection against flooding.

The program will be conducted in-person, with a recording of the meeting to be made available online later in the week.

Flooding is the most common and costliest natural disaster in the U.S., so it is important for community members to be aware of their current flood risk and to use the tools and programs available to them to enhance the safety of their property and community against flooding.

To learn more or to access the flood map, visit the county's FEMA Remapping webpage,

and the interactive map.

For more, call the Flood Control District, 805-568-3440, or email fccontact@countyofsb.org.

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