New FEMA Flood Insurance Maps could impact Kaua‘i County residents

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The upcoming update to FEMA Flood Insurance Maps could change not only what some residents pay for insurance, but also impact mortgages and whether land can even be built on. | Stock Photo at Getty Images

With new FEMA Flood Insurance Maps going into effect on Friday, Feb. 26, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), FEMA and Kaua‘i County are making an effort to make certain both property owners and renters are informed about changes to the maps that might effect them.

Updated flood studies for the Hanapēpē and Waimea rivers and Moloa‘a stream mean that residents in those areas may now be considered at higher risk of flooding for the purposes of flood insurance, a press release from the DLNR states.

Reclassification of a property based on the new FEMA maps has the potential to change more than just flood insurance costs, as it can also have an impact on mortgages and even whether land is buildable or not, according to the release.

Residents are urged to contact their insurance agent prior to Feb. 26 in order to see if there are any steps they can take to alleviate increased costs, the release states. More information can be found at Floodsmart.gov, or by calling 877-336-2627.