A new look at property flood risks

FEMA administers the National Flood Insurance Program and its efforts to reduce the impact of flooding.  In theory, the program reduces the socio-economic impact of disasters.  A large part of the program is driven by FEMA's flood maps, used by homeowners, developers, and city planners when considering projects and purchases.  FEMA mapping wasn't really intended for that purpose, but more for flood plain management and emergency response decisions. 

FEMA seems to do a better job of mapping coastal areas, leaving much of the inland areas with less attention. But even then, FEMA maps look backwards at what has occurred, not using predictive analytics looking at future sea-level rise or increased rain from climate change. Many properties flood, without ever having shown upon FEMA's flood maps. 

The non-profit research group, First Street Foundation has undertaken to provide better information with regard to future possibilities of flooding.  Climate change is quickly affecting our weather and flooding risks for both coastal and inland properties.  First Street Foundation's work is not mean to replace FEMA's efforts, but to provide accurate and forward looking information and resources.  The site has an interesting tool providing information specific to an address.  Within that, there are some tips on mitigating water damage, and indicators of what kind of damage varying heights of flooding will cause to a home. 

The Portland area's flood risk, aside from water front properties, is in high water tables, overly taxed sewer systems and overflowing creeks.  I remember, in the 1996 flood, our old house, off SE Hawthorne, had water coming up from below the foundation, that high water table. Eventually, Don put a sump pump in the basement, which solved the problem.  

Wander around the site and see what you can find.  Take a peek at the tool, and check out your address.  This site is also a great tool if you're considering a new real estate purchase.  

I notice, in my neighborhood, some of the streets show some flooding potential.    I'm guessing that's where water has pooled or larger sewer mains run (posing overflow, back up risks).  See anything interesting? Have you had flooding issues at your house?