
This is an indication that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has started to take the risks of climate change and heavy rains and flooding that accompany it seriously. Until now, the Pinellas County Flood Zone Map hadn’t been updated since 2003. Flooding is becoming more common, and so are the health risks that come along with it. All in all, the amount of disease-causing bacteria rises astronomically.Īs our climate changes, warm air holds more water vapor, leading to heavy rainfalls. Heavy rains that lead to flooding are capable of contaminating drinking water with sewage, pesticides, herbicides, and farm animal waste. Another hidden risk that makes itself known days and weeks after flooding is waterborne illnesses. In fact, a report released by the Union of Concerned Scientists stated that the most overlooked health risk of floods is drowning while attempting to drive through water. These risks become all the more dangerous when they’re not taken seriously. However, flooding carries significant risks to people’s lives and homes. Why the Pinellas County Flood Zone Map Is NecessaryĬompared to tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and more, flooding may seem like a relatively less catastrophic event.


Read on to learn about the latest changes to the Pinellas county flood zone map and why those changes are necessary for the community’s safety. Having an accurate representation of the areas that can be affected by flooding is necessary for the safety of lives and property.īeyond homeowners, flood maps with accurate information are important for community officials, mortgage lenders, insurance professionals, developers, and business owners.

You may be wondering why changes to the flood zone map are necessary.
