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In October 2019, FEMA released new flood maps for Columbia, Mississippi and surrounding Marion County. These updates are part of FEMA’s ongoing effort to more accurately reflect flood risk, but they can also create confusion for homeowners and businesses. Understanding what these changes mean for your property and your insurance requirements is critical if you live in this area.
Why Flood Maps Changed in 2019
Flood maps, also known as Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), are updated as FEMA collects new data on rainfall patterns, river flows, storm surge, and topography. In Columbia, Mississippi, the 2019 map changes were designed to reflect a more realistic picture of flood hazards along the Pearl River and nearby tributaries. For some property owners, this meant being mapped into a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) for the first time.
How These Changes Impact Homeowners
If your property was newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone (such as Zone AE), federal regulations now require you to carry flood insurance if you have a mortgage. Thankfully, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers a “newly mapped” policy option, which allows homeowners to secure coverage with just a one-day waiting period and often at a lower introductory premium. If you already carried a standard NFIP policy, that coverage comes with a 30-day waiting period.
Considering Private Flood Insurance
Private flood insurance has also become an option in Columbia, Mississippi. Private carriers often evaluate risks differently than FEMA, sometimes providing lower premiums or broader coverage. However, acceptance varies, and some companies may decline properties located in floodways or higher-risk areas.
Letter of Map Change (LOMC) Options
If you believe your property has been incorrectly mapped, you may request a Letter of Map Amendment or Letter of Map Revision. This process involves providing elevation data to FEMA that can potentially remove your property from a high-risk zone, lowering or eliminating mandatory insurance requirements.
Protecting Your Property
At The Flood Insurance Guru, we specialize in helping property owners navigate map changes like those in Columbia. From reviewing your zone designation to comparing NFIP and private options, our goal is to help you protect your property while minimizing unnecessary costs.
