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Flood Map Modernization Risks and Impacts Floodplain Development Drainage System Maintenance Property Protection Measures Flood Insurance Harris County Stats Before, During and After the Flood

Risks & Impacts

Protect your assets from floods as a property owner by taking proactive measures. Use the interactive map below to search for your desired location and access valuable floodplain information tailored to that area. Stay informed and make informed decisions regarding flood protection.

Here are some important facts to help you understand the risks and impacts of floods:

Risk:

Floods are the #1 natural disaster in the United States.
Just an inch of water can cause costly damage to property, while six inches of moving water can be dangerous.
Most homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage.
Over 50% of properties in high-risk areas lack flood insurance.
New construction can increase flood risk by altering natural runoff paths.
Millions of Americans are unaware of their personal risk for flood damage.

Impacts:

Flood losses in the United States averaged $2.4 billion per year over the last decade.
The National Flood Insurance Program has paid nearly $16 billion in flood insurance claims during the 2005 hurricane season.
Federal disaster assistance is usually a loan that must be paid back with interest and is only available after a federally declared disaster.
In the past 52 years, nearly 1,000 flood events have been designated as federally declared disasters.
Nearly 75% of all federally declared disasters in the past five years involved flooding.

Property Protection Measures

Protecting your property from floods is crucial, and there are several measures you can take. Here are important steps to consider:

Elevate the structure
Floodproof the structure
Facilitate future evacuations
Purchase flood insurance

For more information on property protection from floods, visit the FEMA website. Additionally, you can find resources on flood protection measures and building protection in the floodplain "libraries" maintained by Harris County at the Harris County Public Library branches and the Harris County Permit's Division.

Remember that even if your property is not in a designated flood hazard area, it's recommended to consider purchasing flood insurance, as most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flood damages.

Let's work together to build resilient communities and reduce the impact of floods through effective floodplain management. Nobody can prevent a flood, but you can take actions to protect your family and minimize property losses.

Did You Know?

Floods can affect communities at various scales and locations across the United States, making it essential for everyone to be aware of flood hazards. Even seemingly harmless water features like streams, gullies and low-lying areas can unexpectedly flood, highlighting the importance of preparedness.

In Harris County, we provide floodplain "libraries" at the Harris County Permit's Division and at your local public library. These libraries serve as valuable resources, offering comprehensive information on flood insurance, protection measures, safety and property protection. You'll find floodplain maps, informative FEMA publications, and other useful documents to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to safeguard your property.

Harris County Stats

Harris County, the third largest county in the U.S., is home to over three million people. With its diverse land use and extensive network of channels and watersheds, the county has experienced numerous flooding events in the past. A floodplain, classified as a Special Flood Hazard Area, refers to land susceptible to water inundation. Harris County has implemented a Flood Insurance Rate Map to identify these areas and is committed to preserving the natural functions of floodplains. The Harris County Flood Control District and the county engineer work together to manage drainage, flood control, and floodplain regulations. Additionally, the county has adopted a Floodplain Management Plan to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program's Community Rating System.

Flood hazard maps, such as Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), are essential tools in safeguarding lives and properties across Harris County. These maps reveal the flood risks associated with specific areas and assist property owners in making informed decisions. Engineers, planners and officials also rely on these maps to guide development. To explore flood hazards near your location, visit the Harris County Flood Control District's Interactive Map at www.harriscountyfemt.org. For an unofficial determination of whether your property is within a flood hazard area, contact the Harris County Permit's Division at 713-274-3900. Copies of the Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for viewing at the Harris County Permit's Division.

Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is essential for protecting your property from flood-related losses. Unlike standard homeowner's policies, flood insurance covers damages caused by flooding. Through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), Harris County participates in providing affordable flood insurance to property owners, renters and businesses. By adopting sound floodplain management ordinances, communities can qualify for discounted insurance rates. It is recommended that all residents, even in low-to-moderate risk areas, consider purchasing flood insurance as most homeowner's policies do not cover flood losses. Premiums for flood insurance vary but average around $500 per year, with lower rates available for low-to-moderate risk areas. To purchase flood insurance, contact your insurance agent or visit www.FloodSmart.gov for more information.

Protecting your property from floods is crucial, and there are several measures you can take. Elevating or floodproofing your structure, facilitating future evacuations and purchasing flood insurance are effective ways to minimize flood damage. For more information on property protection from floods, visit the FEMA website. Additionally, you can find resources on flood protection measures and building protection in the floodplain "libraries" maintained by Harris County at the Harris County Public Library branches and the Harris County Permit's Division. Remember that even if your property is not in a designated flood hazard area, it's recommended to consider purchasing flood insurance, as most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flood damages.

Flood Map Modernization

Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for unincorporated Harris County have been updated by Harris County and FEMA as part of the Flood Map Modernization project. These updated maps provide property owners in Harris County with current and reliable information about their flood risk on a property-by-property basis. To understand how the FEMA updated floodplain boundaries impact your property, please visit the Harris County Flood Control District's Interactive Map.

It's important to note that the issuance of the updated maps does not change the calculated flood levels in Harris County. Instead, more accurate survey information is now available, allowing FEMA to show the floodplain limits more accurately than before. Properties now shown within the floodplain on the updated maps were always within the floodplain; there haven't been any adverse changes to physical features that caused the shift in floodplain limits. The acquisition of better data revealed inaccuracies in the existing maps, some of which are up to 12 years old. This means that the flood risk was always present, and FEMA is now raising public awareness about it by providing more accurate floodplain information.

Drainage System Maintenance:

Stormwater refers to rainwater that washes down storm drains and can carry pollutants into natural water resources. Harris County's stormwater runoff flows into creeks, bayous, and rivers, eventually reaching the Gulf of Mexico. To prevent stormwater pollution, we can all take action:

Maintain vehicles to prevent fluid spills into streets and avoid pouring pollutants into the storm drainage system.
Mulch or bag grass and leaves instead of blowing them into the street to prevent clogging of storm drains.
Pick up litter to prevent trash from blocking drainage inlets and sewer pipes.
Report blocked drains or illegal dumping to the respective Harris County Precinct Office or the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD).

To report issues:

Precinct 1 (Storm Drains and Roadside Ditches): Call (346) 286-2125
Precinct 2 (Storm Drains and Roadside Ditches): Call (713) 455-8104
Precinct 3 (Storm Drains and Roadside Ditches): Call (281) 463-6300
Precinct 4 (Storm Drains and Roadside Ditches): Call (281) 353-8424
All Channels, Bayous, and Creeks: Call HCFCD at (713) 684-4000

Harris County maintains a comprehensive drainage system, including channels, creeks, bayous, roadside ditches, culverts, inlets, manholes and storm drainpipes. Regular maintenance activities are performed by the Harris County Flood Control District to remove debris from channels.

For more information, visit our Watershed Protection page to learn about Harris County's efforts in maintaining the drainage system and protecting water quality in our community.

Floodplain Development

Structures in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) within Harris County are subject to Floodplain Management Regulations to minimize flood risk.

Here are key points to know:

A Floodplain Development Permit is required for all work in the floodplain.
Structures within the SFHA must have a minimum finished floor elevation of 18 feet above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE).
A post-construction Finished Floor Elevation Certificate, certified by a Texas Registered Professional Surveyor, Engineer, or Architect, is necessary for SFHA structures.
Obtain the Elevation Certificate form and instructions from FEMA's website or the Harris County Permit's Division.

For a Floodplain Development Permit:

Complete a residential Permit Application available at the Harris County Permit's Division or online.
Submit three sets of project plans showing existing and proposed contours at the site, with elevations on NAVD 2001 datum.
If the structure is in or adjacent to the SFHA, provide two Elevation Certificates: one before pouring the slab and one for post-construction finished floor elevation.

Residents, homeowners, and business owners:

If your property is in the SFHA, a Residential Permit Application and compliance with Floodplain Management Regulations are required for any work, including grading, filling, paving, construction, and other projects.
If your property has been significantly damaged by flooding or you plan substantial improvements, you may need to bring it into compliance with current development standards.

For further information or site visits to address flooding and drainage issues, contact the Harris County Permit's Division at 713-274-3900.

Please note that this information is subject to change, and it's essential to stay updated with the latest guidelines and regulations from local authorities and the Harris County Permit's Division.

Floodplain Management encompasses a range of corrective and preventive measures designed to minimize flood damage and enhance emergency preparedness. It includes implementing flood control works, developing emergency preparedness plans and establishing floodplain management regulations. By adopting these strategies, we can significantly reduce the impact of floods on our communities while preserving the natural resources and functionality of these vital areas

In Harris County, we are dedicated to reducing flood losses and protecting our communities. Through a comprehensive decision-making process, we aim to mitigate the risks associated with flooding. By implementing effective floodplain management strategies, we can safeguard our residents and minimize the impact of flood events.

The Harris County Floodplain Management Information Center serves as a valuable resource for Harris County residents, offering essential information and resources related to flooding. Our goal is to ensure easy access to Harris County's regulations and programs concerning flooding and floodplain management.

If time allows and evacuation is necessary:

Turn off utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
Move valuables to upper floors.
Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic bottles with clean water.
Bring outdoor possessions inside or secure them.

Stay alert:

Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.
Warn children to avoid playing near swollen creeks, storm drains, or culverts.
Do not go near creeks and low-water crossings. Beware of rising, swift-moving water.

Stay tuned:

Listen to your radio, TV, or National Weather Service radio for the latest weather information. Learn about NOAA Weather Radios here.

Understand the difference:

Flash Flood Warning: Flash flooding has been reported.
Flash Flood Watch: Conditions exist that may lead to flash flooding.
Urban and Small Stream Advisory: Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas is occurring.

Stay Away

Do not drive or walk into flowing water across roads or bridges.
Heed warnings and street barricades.
Avoid downed power lines and electrical wires.

Move to a Safer Area

Evacuate your house if instructed.
If waters rise inside your house, retreat to the second floor, attic or roof.

Document damage with photographs or videos.

Before entering a flooded building, check for structural damage and potential hazards.

Call your insurance agent to initiate a FEMA flood insurance claim.

Boil water for drinking and food preparation until it is declared safe.

Take precautions while cleaning, as floodwaters may contain sewage and chemicals.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for grading, building or renovating in a floodplain?

Yes, you are required to obtain a permit to ensure compliance with Harris County's Floodplain Management Regulations.

Who determines floodplain boundaries?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) works in conjunction with local governments to establish the boundaries of the 100-year floodplain through flood insurance rate studies. Different studies are conducted for each community as floodplain levels can vary based on the characteristics of the area.

Can I build on property in a floodplain?

Yes, you can build on property within a floodplain. However, there are restrictions on grading, new construction and certain renovations. For more information regarding these requirements, please contact the Harris County Permit's Division at (713) 956-3000.

What is a 100-year floodplain?

The term "100-year flood" is misleading as it does not mean a flood that occurs once every 100 years. There are various levels of floods, including 500-year, 100-year, 20-year, and 10-year floods. These numbers represent the likelihood of a specific area flooding within a year. For instance, a home located in a 100-year floodplain has a 1% chance each year of experiencing a flood. This percentage remains consistent regardless of previous flood occurrences or their severity.

What are the odds of flooding within a 100-year floodplain?

If your home is situated in the 100-year floodplain, it has a 26% chance of flooding over a 30-year mortgage period, which is approximately five times higher than the risk of a severe fire. If your home is located in a lower-lying area of the 100-year floodplain, the risk of flooding increases. However, it's important to note that people outside the 100-year floodplain are not entirely free from risk, and federally-backed flood insurance is available to those outside this zone as well.

Can I build on property in a floodplain?

Yes, you can build on property within a floodplain. However, there are restrictions on grading, new construction and certain renovations. For more information regarding these requirements, please contact the Harris County Permit's Division at (713) 956-3000.

Am I required to purchase flood insurance?

Yes, if your property is in a high-risk area or Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) and you have a federally-backed mortgage, such as an FHA or VA loan. While flood insurance is not mandatory for properties in low and moderate-risk areas, Harris County recommends that everyone assess their risk and explore options for purchasing flood insurance as everyone has some level of flood risk.

Do I need a permit for grading, building or renovating in a floodplain?

Yes, you are required to obtain a permit to ensure compliance with Harris County's Floodplain Management Regulations.

How much does flood insurance cost?

The rate currently charged by the National Flood Insurance Program is adjusted annually. To obtain more details, please consult your insurance agent.

Does standard homeowner's insurance cover losses and damages due to flooding?

No, standard homeowner's insurance policies do not typically cover losses and damages caused by flooding.

How can I determine if my property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area?

You can visit the Harris County Flood Control District's Interactive Map or contact the Harris County Permit's Division at (713) 956-3000 to ascertain if your property is within a Special Flood Hazard Area.

What is a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)?

A Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is a map issued by FEMA that identifies special flood hazard areas in a community. In Harris County, the map indicates the boundaries of the 1% (Base Flood or 100-year) and 0.2% (500-year) floodplains, as well as regulatory floodway boundaries.

How can I obtain a copy of the Flood Insurance Rate Map for my property?

Please visit the FEMA map store.

Is my property located in a floodplain?

To determine if your property is in a floodplain, you can visit Flood Education Mapping Tool site or view the floodplain maps in person at the Harris County Permit's Division, Monday to Friday, between 7:30 am and 4:00 pm. For an official floodplain status of your property, it is recommended to consult a floodplain determination consultant. A list of these consultants can be found at FEMA Floodplain Management. An official determination is often required by mortgage and insurance companies.