The Process of Coastal Floodplain Mapping
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) prepares maps of coastal floodplains. Homeowners with a mortgage need flood insurance if their homes are located within a flood zone.
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Mapping Process
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FEMA uses wind and wave measurements to determine if there is any scope for flood damage in a particular location. The agency determines how high the waves could get at the height of a storm. The topography of an area and water depths are other inputs the agency uses in coastal floodplain mapping.
Modern Techniques
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Computerized techniques for floodplain mapping make use of a modeling process to determine the effect of waves and wind and arrive at the possibility of flooding damage. These computerized methods also take into account input such as how the impact of islands and underwater ledges, for instance, could reduce the height of the waves.
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FEMA Revisions
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The FEMA coastal floodplain maps are not set in stone and could be revised. FEMA takes into account any information property owners and communities provide in making their revision decisions.
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