Abstract
Accurate floodplain maps are the key to better floodplain management. The days of expensive and unwieldy floodplain mapping by hand using paper maps are long gone. However, much of the analysis in floodplain management studies is still performed using separate modeling and mapping programs, which is less efficient than an integrated modeling and mapping approach. Today, new technologies, such as geographical information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS) and remote sensing are helping floodplain managers to create accurate and current floodplain maps, with improved efficiency and speed, and at a reasonable cost. Today, it is possible to create floodplain maps that are dynamically linked to hydrologic and hydraulic models. This linkage allows more efficient map updates if the hydrologic or hydraulic parameters are changed. This chapter describes the latest technology and applications for developing floodplain models and maps. Examples and case studies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s map modernization (Map Mod) and new risk mapping, assessment and planning (Risk MAP) programs, are discussed to illustrate the advances in floodplain modeling and mapping applications.
Highlights
20.1 IntroductionFundamental to effectively managing floodplain resources and mitigating floods. Floodplain management entails corrective and preventive measures for reducing flood damage, such as emergency response plans, flood control structures (e.g. levees and dams) and floodplain management regulations
When, because of rainfall, snow melt or a dam break, water reaches a usually dry place where it is generally not expected, it is called a flood
A flood insurance study (FIS) report usually accompanies a flood insurance rate map (FIRM). These engineering studies are conducted by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) contractors who use hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) models to compute 100 y and 500 y peak flows and flood elevations
Summary
Fundamental to effectively managing floodplain resources and mitigating floods. Floodplain management entails corrective and preventive measures for reducing flood damage, such as emergency response plans, flood control structures (e.g. levees and dams) and floodplain management regulations. The three components of NFIP are flood insurance, floodplain management and flood hazard mapping. FIRMs show 100 y (base) and 500 y flood plain boundaries and elevations for most rivers and major streams of a flood prone community. A flood insurance study (FIS) report usually accompanies a FIRM These engineering studies are conducted by FEMA contractors who use H&H models to compute 100 y and 500 y peak flows and flood elevations. It is imperative to maintain the integrity and credibility of the engineering data for reliable risk identification, and to ensure that the information can be leveraged to improve mitigation activities beyond the minimum federal requirements for participation in NFIP (FEMA, 2010a). The program combines quality engineering with updated flood hazard data to help communities plan for and prevent risk using the best possible information.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
