Preliminary updated Tehama County flood maps from FEMA

In a Jan. 8 press release, the Federal Emergency Management Agency — FEMA — shared they have delivered preliminary updated flood maps for Tehama County and Red Bluff. They state updated information was provided from FEMA and Tehama County officials to accurately reflect flood risks.

They say changes may affect future building standards or insurance requirements. There will be a 90-day appeal period before the maps are effective.

The press release states that the 90-day appeal period before Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective will fall from Jan. 22 to April 22.

In the appeal period, people who have supporting information can appeal the flood risk information presented on the preliminary maps. FEMA states this supporting technical or scientific information can include “detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data.”

“The maps identify revised flood hazards along seven streams throughout Tehama County,” the press release states. “The new maps will help building officials, contractors, and homeowners make effective mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer and more disaster resilient communities.”

Preliminary maps, indexes and a preliminary flood insurance study can be found by visiting hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/ and selecting Tehama County.

Tutorials on map use, insurance and more can be found at fema.gov/flood-maps/tutorials.

FEMA manages the National Flood Insurance Program, which provides flood insurance for owners, renters and businesses. More information about flood insurance can be found at floodsmart.gov or the flood insurance program can be reached at 877-336-2627.

The release states flood patterns can change over time due to elements including erosion, weather patterns or even development. The mapping project conducted locally is part of a larger national effort that FEMA is leading to increase flood risk knowledge and reduce the effects of flooding on structures.

“FEMA encourages residents to review the preliminary flood maps to learn about local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements, and identify any concerns or questions about the information provided,” the release states.

For more information, the release states people can contact the Tehama Building Department’s Patrick Ewald. Ewald can be reached at 530-527-7002 or by email at pewald@tehama.gov.

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