Harris County learned a devastating lesson during Hurricane Harvey, when widespread flooding destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. Property owners learned too late that the maps outlining Houston’s flood plains were wildly out of date – and they were in the storm’s line of fire for flooding. Harris County is working to update these maps, but will they come too late for property owners?
Out Of Date Flood Maps
Flood maps utilize rainfall data to help predict the likelihood of flooding. Flood plain maps help determine where homes are allowed to be built, the cost of flood insurance, and locations for flood control projects. Unfortunately, some areas of the Harris County flood map hadn’t been updated with rainfall data since 2001. To address the outdated maps, Harris County has committed $14.5 million to update the county’s flood plain maps. The county has accepted $6.5 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help pay for the new maps and will be contributing $8 million of its own funds.
Although funds have been set aside for new flood plain maps, many are worried they won’t be available fast enough to help Houstonians. The maps are currently scheduled to be completed in 2023. This means Harris County residents will have to face at least four more hurricane seasons without updated flood information. While the city has been spared by any catastrophic storms so far this hurricane season, there’s no telling if we will get this lucky in the years to come.
Houston Still Struggling Through Recovery
While some affected by Hurricane Harvey have been able to rebuild completely, others are still struggling. Homes flooded by the Addicks and Barker Reservoirs dam releases are still waiting for their day in court with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Many other property owners are fighting with insurance companies over damages.
Have Questions About A Hurricane Harvey Claim?
If you are struggling with your insurance company over your Hurricane Harvey insurance claim or if the Addicks or Barker reservoirs flooded your home, contact Raizner Law today. We are proud to represent Hurricane Harvey victims and their families and help them rebuild. Contact us today for a free consultation.
