Richland County Residents Invited to Review Flood Maps

CHICAGO - Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Richland County within the Kickapoo River Watershed. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around September 18, 2025. The preliminary maps and changes from current maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: https://http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state, and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. Contact your local floodplain administrator to do so.

• Appeals must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information, such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary, they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at https://http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the "Live Chat" icon during operating hours).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone toll-free at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at [email protected].

Most homeowner's, renter's and business insurance policies do not cover flood damage to a building and its contents. More than 40% of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims are from outside high-risk flood zones. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.FloodSmart.gov.

For more information, contact the FEMA Mapping Team at [email protected].