FEMA_MC Flood Mitigation Program

On December 20th 2024, the Township of Morris received the latest update to FEMA’s Preliminary Digital Flood Hazard Areas Mapping. The digital mapping offers a significant improvement over the flood mapping that is currently in effect.  Several years’ worth of revisions and reanalysis however, have delayed formal adoption of the digital mapping.  The Township Engineering Department has raised concerns with each preliminary map release and has completed our own analysis of some of the affected streams.  This includes a detailed analysis of Loantaka Brook the data for which was provided to NJDEP and FEMA for inclusion in their analysis.  

Based on the current mapping data it is estimated that the number of homes located in the Special Flood Hazard Area will be reduced.  While the data estimates 24 homes will be added into the flood zone an estimated 86 will be removed for a net reduction of 62 homes.  It should be noted that these estimates are “very rough” estimates and can change with the final map release.  This information is as reported on page 55 of Morris County Flood Risk Review Meeting  slides.      

 Residents may view FEMA’s Preliminary Digital Flood Hazard Areas Mapping by clicking on this link, https://arcg.is/1iW8LT0 .  An address search bar is located on the top left corner of the map if you wish to view your property in more detail.  The new flood mapping data does not go into effect until final adoption by the Township of Morris.  Given the history of multiple preliminary map releases it may take more time then what FEMA’s representatives are currently estimating for the Township to receive the authorization to adopt the new maps.

 Residents should also be aware that New Jersey has established a higher flood limit to the limit proposed by FEMA.  The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) limit adds an additional 3 feet of free board the flood hazard area proposed by FEMA.  This higher flood elevation greatly expands the limits area and those property’s subject to flood hazard regulations.  Residents can view this data by clicking on the following link, https://www.njfloodmapper.org/map/INll0qhq88JLP4A .  Residents should contact the NJDEP with any questions regarding the impact that NJDEP’s expanded flood hazard limit has on their property. 

 Additional links to the Morris County Flood Mitigation Program information are available below.