New Maps will Outline Flood-Prone Areas in Nassau County

Beginning the week of July 21, 2008, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will begin holding a series of "open houses" to explain new assessments of Nassau County's flood risks. New maps developed by FEMA will set standards as to who needs to purchase flood insurance and additional construction and structural requirements for homes built in high flood risk areas.

Over the past several months we have seen horrific reports of destructive flooding throughout the country, particularly in the Midwest. But here on Long Island, we are also susceptible to damaging floods that could devastate our region. It is crucial that we are prepared in the event of a flooding disaster, but Long Islanders need to have the proper insurance to cover the costs of the damages that could results from serious flooding. We must accurately know our risks and be prepared in the event of a flood.

As a result of the new mapping system, some homeowners that were not previously considered to be in flood-prone areas might now need to reconsider purchasing flood insurance, or increasing the amount of insurance that they are already carrying. The FEMA maps utilize new technologies that have updated the floodplains and in some cases reclassified areas that were previously considered to be lower-risk for serious flood damage as higher-risk. These changes can dramatically impact the cost and amount of insurance that people should have on their homes.

In order for the flood risk to Long Islanders to be fairly and accurately assessed, it is important that residents take advantage of the open houses being held by the NYS DEC and FEMA. Nassau County residents can also check their status by contacting local municipal offices or online at http://rmc.mapmodteam.com/RMC2/Counties_Nassau.htm

The following is a list of dates and location of upcoming open houses:

July 22, 2008 - Open House for General Public - 4PM - 9PM

Cantiague Elementary School

678 Cantiague Rock Road

Jericho, NY

July 23, 2008 - Open House for General Public - 4PM - 9PM

Theodore Roosevelt Executive Legislative Building

First Floor Legislative Chamber

1550 Franklin Ave., Mineola, NY

July 24, 2008 - Open House for General Public - 4PM - 9PM

Nassau Community College - Multipurpose Room

One Education Drive, Garden City, NY