Understanding the Complexities of Flood Insurance and Dam Safety
Federal policies around flood insurance and dam safety are creating a challenging situation for residents living in flood-prone areas. An Associated Press review of federal records and data has revealed that conflicting policies may result in higher insurance costs for thousands of residents or leave them unaware of potential dangers posed by dams built upstream from their homes and workplaces.
One of the issues at hand is related to a points-based rating system implemented by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to determine flood insurance discounts. Communities are required to map out properties at risk of dam failure and inform residents about the potential dangers. However, some federal agencies restrict the release of this information for dams they own or regulate, citing security concerns.
For example, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has started publicly posting maps of flood-prone areas near its dams, but other agencies like the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation continue to restrict such information. This lack of transparency poses challenges for communities trying to secure better insurance discounts for their residents.
As climate change increases the risk of flooding and puts aging dams in jeopardy, the need for accurate information and proper risk mitigation measures is more important than ever. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program provides coverage in communities that have adopted floodplain management regulations, but the program faces challenges in incentivizing communities to reduce flood risks.
Despite efforts to improve dam safety and flood insurance programs, there are still gaps in information sharing and coordination among federal agencies, which puts communities at risk. Addressing these challenges will require a collaborative effort between federal, state, and local governments to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in flood-prone areas.
It’s crucial that communities have access to accurate information about dam safety and flood risks to adequately prepare for potential disasters. By working together to overcome these obstacles, we can create a safer and more resilient environment for all.
For more information on this issue, you can read the full Associated Press article here.
Stay informed, stay safe!
