DENTON, Texas –– New revised preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in all communities and unincorporated areas of Orange County. Officials encourage property owners to review the latest information to learn about their flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
The new flood hazard information and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are the results of coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. FIRMs serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) and setting rates for flood insurance. SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development, and flood insurance.
Flooding can happen anywhere. “Along with our state and local partners we’ve worked hard to bring this critical information to Orange County. We hope everyone will review the maps to understand their individual flood risks,” said FEMA Region 6 Administrator, Tony Robinson. “Flood water does not stop at a line on a map, so I encourage everyone to purchase flood insurance, because more than 25 percent of flood damages occur outside of the Special Flood Hazard Area.”
Once Texas COVID-19 related stay-at-home protocols (EO No. GA14) are lifted, residents are encouraged to review the revised preliminary flood maps by visiting your local floodplain administrator (FPA). Meanwhile, FEMA Map Specialists can help identify your community FPA and assist with map change and insurance questions by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To leave a voicemail, please call 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) and your voicemail will be returned within two business days.
The preliminary maps may also be viewed online now at the following locations:
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent, visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov, or calling 1-800-427-4661.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/femaregion6 and the FEMA Blog at http://blog.fema.gov
