Floodplain Brochure 2017THE BENEFITS OF FLOODPLAINS
Floodplains naturally store and convey floodwaters and
regulate water flows into rivers and lakes. They also
maintain water quality and recharge groundwater
aquifers. Floodplains can support large, diverse
populations of plants & animals as well as provide
historical, scientific, recreational, & economic benefits to
communities.
I LIVE IN A FLOODPLAIN - DO CONSTRUCTION
STANDARDS DIFFER FROM PROPERTIES NOT IN A
FLOODPLAIN?
County building regulations require additional
construction standards for new structures or substantial
improvements to existing structures in floodplains.. Some
construction standards include raising the lowest enclosed
floor above flood levels, flood-proofing and anchoring.
Please remember that any type of development in a
floodplain, including land filling and excavation, may
require a permit. This is to ensure that drainage is
maintained and wetlands are preserved.
DO I NEED SPECIAL INSURANCE IF MY PROPERTY IS IN
THE FLOODPLAIN?
In order to obtain financing to buy, build, or improve
property in the floodplain, Federal law requires that you
obtain flood insurance. Damage caused by flooding is not
covered by normal homeowner’s insurance.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY HOME FROM FLOODING?
Make sure the main electric switchbox, electric outlets
and switches, washers and dryers, and furnaces and water
heaters are located at least 2’ above the base flood
elevation. Make sure any fuel tanks are anchored securely
to the floor. Install sewer backflow valves to prevent
sewage backups. Add waterproof veneer to exterior
walls.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SEE SOMEONE DUMPING DEBRIS
IN DITCHES OR STREAMS?
Dumping debris in ditches or streams impedes drainage &
is against the law. All violations should be reported to the
County Engineering Department at (910) 798-7139.
Violations involving forestry practices should be reported
to the N.C. Division of Forest Resources at (910) 251-5750.
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Flood hazard areas are typically low-lying properties
near streams, creeks, rivers and/or estuarine areas that
have the potential for flooding. A map of New Hanover
County’s Special Flood Hazard Areas is on the back of
this brochure. This area has a 1% chance of flooding in
any given year.
In addition to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS), the
Planning Department has the following information
available for review: elevation certificates, additional
FIRM information, identification of problem areas not
shown on the map, special flood-related hazards,
historical flood information, flood depth data,
information regarding the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP), and other flood education materials.
For more information please call 910-798-7165.
If indoors:
If told to evacuate, do so. If you cannot
evacuate, go to the highest floor.
If outdoors:
Climb to high ground and stay there until help
arrives. Avoid walking through floodwaters as
they may sweep you off your feet.
If in a car:
If you approach a flooded area, turn around &
go another way. If your car stalls in flood
waters, abandon the car & immediately climb
to higher ground.
REMEMBER: Flash floods can occur in
minutes!
Have disaster supplies like flashlights, battery-
operated radio, first aid kit, emergency food,
and water on hand.
Bring outdoor belongings indoors.
Have an emergency action plan.
Stay tuned to local TV and radio stations.
WAAV 980 AM
WMNX 97.3 FM
NOAA weather station KH31 162.55 MH2
EVACUATE if asked to do so.
REMEMBER—PROTECTING
YOURSELF FROM FLOODING
SAVES LIVES AND MONEY!
BE PREPARED FOR A STORM
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE IN A FLOOD
You are receiving this brochure because
land you own or rent is in or near a
Special Flood Hazard Area as mapped by
the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA).
Numerous materials concerning flooding, flood-proofing, and
construction techniques can be found at the reference desk of
the County’s main library, 201 Chestnut Street (910) 798-6301.
EMERGENCY PREPARATION & EVACUATION
New Hanover County Emergency Management
(910) 798-6900
FLOOD MAPS & BUILDING IN THE FLOODPLAIN
New Hanover County Planning
(910) 798-7165
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