State emergency management officials are encouraging the public to help ensure the accuracy of floodplain maps in Warren County, according to a release from the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

The update to the Flood Insurance Rate Map for Warren County is nearing completion, the agency said in the Sept. 4 release. The new maps will provide communities in Warren County with up-to-date flood risk information and tools that can be used to enhance local mitigation plans and help local officials and residents make informed decisions about reducing flood risks and purchasing flood insurance, it said. 

The local mapping project is part of a nationwide effort led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to increase local knowledge of flood risks and support actions to address and reduce those risks. The work in Warren County has been led by SEMA, in partnership with local community officials. A 90-day appeal period will be provided during which property owners and lessees can provide additional data for consideration.

During the past couple of years, community officials throughout the county have worked closely with SEMA to ensure the floodplain maps provide an accurate picture of flood risks, according to the release. This information will ensure that homes and businesses are insured appropriately against flooding, while also helping to make more informed decisions about how to protect Warren County from what might otherwise be devastating flooding events, the release said.

Warren County officials encourage property owners and lessees to review the proposed Flood Insurance Rate Map to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements, and to identify any concerns or questions about the information provided, the release said.

If you see incorrect information that does not involve changing the flood hazard-related information — such as a missing or misspelled road name or an incorrect corporate boundary — you can submit a written correction, or “comment.” If you believe the modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect, you may submit an appeal, which must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support your claim.

Because submitting an appeal requires some time and effort, SEMA encourages property owners and lessees to review the updated flood maps now to determine if they are interested in pursuing this option. For those interested in submitting a comment or appeal, SEMA highly recommends that they first discuss it with their local floodplain administrator so they can provide guidance on the process. Comments and appeals must be submitted through the local floodplain administrator. For more details on this process, visit www.FEMA.gov.