Are you in a flood-risk area? Better check after Ada County updates flood maps
BOISE, Idaho (KBOI) — Ada County residents gathered inside the Ada County Courthouse Wednesday, wondering if their property might be added into a flood plain.
The study, conducted by FEMA and some of their partners, affects nearly $1 billion in real estate property.
Winston Stokes found out Wednesday that his property is not on the flood plain. He bought flood insurance two days ago.
After the Treasure Valley's historic snowfall, he figured buying insurance is better safe than sorry.
"Sudden melt-off plus the dumping of the water out of Lucky Peak; if the reservoir fills really fast, there could be a lot more water coming down than normal," Stokes said.
One of FEMA's regional flood engineers says they've been studying how Idaho's water and terrain have changed over the last five and a half years, along with other risk factors.
"Other risk factors include current conditions such as snow melt, ice conditions, brides, culverts that aren't maintained; deposition of materials in the riverbed," said David Ratte', FEMA regional flood engineer.
Garden City is looking at the biggest potential for change because the cities' levies are no longer certified.
"Historically, the maps that are in place now recognize the impact of levies that were constructed probably in the 40s," said John Evans, Garden City mayor.
The updated flood plain map includes most of Garden City because they're discounting the outdated levies; but before any changes will actually happen, engineers are going to study the area for a couple more years to see if levies can be brought up to standard.
Keep in mind, these are preliminary maps and any real change will happen in spring 2018.
To see if your property is in flood plain map, click here.
Another open house is scheduled for Thursday at Lowell Scott Middle School from 6 to 8 p.m.
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