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In an effort to digitize flood maps and accurately reflect the true flood hazard risks, FEMA has initiated the Multi-Hazard Flood Map Modernization project.  As flood hazard data is updated, the flood map inventory becomes a digital map system enabling officials at all levels of government to assess risks using GIS-based technology and data.  Building capability with state partners and local communities will enable FEMA to grant states’ request to maintain their flood data.

The following have been identified as reasons for updating flood maps:

• New development and storm impact may change the physical environment such that the actual risks are no longer depicted on the flood maps.  This is a critical problem in Rhode Island.
• Better data is available, including topography, rainfall, gages, and other sources.  The approximately 218 Flood Insurance Rate Maps in Rhode Island are approximately 15 years or older..
• New methods and models are available, providing more accurate predictions.
• Many areas were never mapped

Map Modernization will result in safer communities by providing more accurate, readily available, and easier to use flood maps for communities worldwide.
Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency and Dewberry consultants are working with local communities on identifying new flood zones and improve the quality and accuracy of flood data.  (attach business plan PDF)

For more information, check out FEMA’s Map Mod website at: http://www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/fhm/index.shtm/mm_main.shtm

Although the NFIP has been successful in requiring new buildings to be protected from damage by a 100-year flood, there continues to be damage from lesser floods.  The Community Rating System (CRS) encourages communities regulate new construction beyond the minimum national standards to further reduce flood damage.  Currently there are four Rhode Island communities are voluntarily participating in the CRS.

Residents of communities that participate in the CRS receive discounts on their flood insurance premiums to reflect community activities that reduce flood damage to existing buildings, manage development in areas not mapped by the NFIP, protect new buildings beyond the minimum NFIP protection level, help insurance agents obtain flood data, and help people obtain flood insurance.

For further information, visit FEMA’s CRS website: http://www.fema.gov/business/nfip/crs.shtm

The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program provides funding to assist States and communities in implementing measures to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to buildings, manufactured homes, and other structures insurable under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). There are three types of grants available under FMA: Planning, Project, and Technical Assistance Grants. FMA Planning Grants are available to States and communities to prepare Flood Mitigation Plans. NFIP-participating communities with approved Flood Mitigation Plans can apply for FMA Project Grants.

FMA Project Grants are available to States and NFIP participating communities to implement measures to reduce flood losses. Ten percent of the Project Grant is made available to States as a Technical Assistance Grant. These funds may be used by the State to help administer the program. Communities receiving FMA Planning and Project Grants must be participating in the NFIP. A few examples of eligible FMA projects include: the elevation, acquisition, and relocation of NFIP-insured structures.

Additional information can be found on FEMA’s FMA website: http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/fma/index.shtm

FEMA’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program, offers funding for states, territories, tribal government, and communities to develop hazard mitigation plans and implement mitigation activities prior to a disaster event.  The purpose of the program is to prevent loss of life and property in addition to reducing post-disaster costs. 

For more information on PDM and PDM grant applications, please check out http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/pdm/index.shtm