New FEMA Flood Insurance Maps for New Jersey
Even before Hurricane Sandy, FEMA engineers were working on replacements for decades-old flood-insurance maps. In December, they released new maps that significantly changed the flood plains in New York and New Jersey. In January, Gov. Chris Christie adopted the new maps, and anyone repairing substantial damage to houses along the shore could face the the prospect of five-figure insurance premiums if they don’t elevate their houses. The shading here shows how much the new FEMA maps change minimum first floor elevations compared to the old maps.
Click boxes to view reports on communities.
Flood insurance maps are divided into zones based on level of expected flooding and wave action.
'A' zone
Waves are expected to be low. Zone is usually further from the oceanfront, and foundations can be solid.
'V' zone
Waves over 3 feet are expected; foundations must not obstruct water. Much of the bay side of New Jersey has been changed from “A” to “V.”
Hurricane Sandy came at the region directly, a frontal assault of wind and waves along hundreds of miles of the coast.
