Flood Maps Become Final in July for Grant County, Arkansas

DENTON, Texas, March 14 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency issued the following news release:

New flood maps for Grant County will become effective July 18, 2017. County residents are encouraged to view the maps before the effective date to understand their flood risk.

Most property insurance policies do not cover the effects of flooding. Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their homes, personal property and businesses. Flooding is the most frequent natural disaster in the U.S. and only flood insurance covers these events.

Grant County residents are encouraged to contact their local floodplain administrator to learn if their community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). They can also review the new flood maps at the county floodplain administrator's office. In addition, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) map specialists and flood insurance experts are available to answer questions. They can be reached by phone and online chat.

FEMA resources include:

* Viewing a Preliminary Interactive Flood Map: http://maps.riskmap6.com/AR/Grant/

* Using the live chat service at http://go.usa.gov/r6C. Click on the "Live Chat" icon.

* Contacting a FEMA map specialist by calling 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or sending an email to FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com

* Calling the NFIP Helpline - 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Press "2" for flood insurance questions.

FEMA encourages non-participating communities to look at the benefits of joining the NFIP.

Businesses and homeowners who learn that their property has been newly mapped into a Special Flood Hazard Area may want to consider buying flood insurance before the maps become effective. Contacting a local insurance agent is the first step in getting information about insurance. Visit www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-888-379-9531 to locate an agent in your area.

The National Flood Insurance Program is a voluntary program administered by FEMA.

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