Public Invited to Review, Appeal Flood Maps in Rangerville, Cameron County, Texas

DENTON, Texas, Feb. 2 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency issued the following news release:

Residents and business owners in Rangerville have new, preliminary flood maps to review. These maps were produced by a team of local, state and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials. Residents and business owners are encouraged to view the maps for a better understanding of their flood risks. The public is invited to participate in an appeal period about the maps. Anyone who wishes to file an appeal has until April 17, 2017, for submission.

Here's the definition an appeal:

Appeals are formal objections to proposed base flood elevations or flood depths. They can also be submitted for Special Flood Hazard Areas boundaries and zones, or floodways. Appeals must be based on technical data showing proposed maps to be scientifically incorrect. Anyone making an appeal must include the method, data and analysis used to support the claim.

By learning their flood risk, individuals and community leaders can make informed decisions about building and development. They can also make informed decisions about purchasing a policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Reviewing the maps can be accomplished by visiting the county of community floodplain administrator's office, or:

* Viewing the preliminary flood map at: http://maps.riskmap6.com/TX/Cameron

* Using a live chat service about flood maps at go.usa.gov/r6C, just click on the "Live Chat" icon;

* Contacting a FEMA Map Specialist at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or [email protected].

The next step is the resolution of all appeals. When complete, FEMA notifies communities of the effective date of the final maps.

When a flood risk is identified, the next step is to consider purchasing a flood policy. They are available from the National Flood Insurance Program. Contacting a local insurance agent is the first step to gather information about insurance. Visit www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-888-379-9531 to locate an agent in your area. For information about the NFIP, call 1-800- 621-3362, select option 2 for assistance.

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