Surge Maps

A community's vulnerability to flooding resulting from various categories of hurricanes can be assessed by consulting tidal surge maps that were created for the region. The surge maps give a general indication of the extent of flooding that might be experienced from various category hurricanes; however, it is important to understanding the information displayed. The flooding depicted is a worst case, all direction storm scenarios. In other words, surge is estimated based on storms approaching the region from the North, South, East, West, etc. The surge maps do not indicate depth of flooding, nor do they take into account flooding caused by wave action along the Atlantic coast or the heavy rainfall that accompanies a hurricane. The amount of inundation is also dependent upon variations in low tide or high tide conditions.

Hurricane surge maps are quite different than the FEMA 100-Year Flood Insurance Maps. 100-year flood maps are extremely conservative in comparison to hurricane tidal surge maps. If you are vulnerable to hurricane tidal surge flooding and/or 100-year flood events, you should consider purchasing flood insurance. You do not have to be within the 100-year flood plain to be impacted by hurricane tidal surge flooding! To learn more about flood insurance, visit www.floodsmart.gov or contact your insurance provider.

For more detailed information, clarification and/or specific information regarding your vulnerability, visit the links provided or contact your local emergency management office.

Keep in mind that the hazards or risks associated with a hurricane also include highly destructive winds. Be sure you're prepared!

Hits since Oct. 2006