Flood-Prone Areas In Brunswick County, North Carolina

Brunswick County, North Carolina, consists of several flood zones. These include Flood Zone X and Shaded X, which are considered low risk and not currently regulated; VE zones or Coastal High Hazard Areas, where high-velocity wave action can accompany storm surges and cause severe damage to buildings; and AE zones, which are areas affected by storm surges but where wave action is diminished or absent. The county released new preliminary flood maps in 2014, which are more accurate than the effective maps due to the use of new data and modelling technology. These maps are available through the Brunswick County Geographic Information Services (GIS) and the North Carolina Flood Risk Information System (FRIS).

Flood zones in Brunswick County

Brunswick County, North Carolina, has several flood zones, each carrying a different level of risk. Flood Zones X and Shaded X are considered low-risk areas and are not regulated by ordinance. However, other flood zones, such as the VE zones or Coastal High Hazard Areas, are at a much higher risk of flooding. In these areas, high-velocity wave action accompanies storm surges, causing severe damage to buildings.

The Coastal A Zone is another high-risk area, where the primary source of flooding is astronomical tides, storm surges, seiches, or even tsunamis, rather than riverine flooding. AE zones are also prone to flooding, experiencing storm surges but with diminished or absent wave action.

The 1%-annual-chance flood event, also known as Flood Zone A, is another area that is subject to flooding. While detailed hydraulic analyses are not available for this zone, it is important to note that no Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) or flood depths are shown.

To help residents, business owners, and builders understand and mitigate flood risks, Brunswick County offers a range of resources, including flood maps and educational materials. These resources are designed to minimize the potential damage caused by flooding. The county also participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), offering federally-subsidized flood insurance to residents, which provides significant savings in annual premiums.

Flood insurance

Brunswick County, North Carolina, is vulnerable to flooding due to its coastal location and proximity to the shoreline. Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States, and it is essential for residents of Brunswick County to be aware of the risks and take appropriate measures to protect their properties.

The county has several flood zones, each with varying levels of risk. Flood Zone X and Shaded X are considered low-risk areas and are not currently regulated by ordinance. However, other flood zones, such as the VE zones or Coastal High Hazard Areas, are subject to mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements and floodplain management standards. In these areas, high-velocity wave action accompanies storm surges, posing a severe threat to buildings and infrastructure.

To determine the flood risk and zone of a specific property in Brunswick County, residents are advised to refer to the Floodplain Management resources provided by the county. This includes consulting the Brunswick County Geographic Information Services (GIS) maps, which were updated in 2014 to more accurately reflect the flood risks. While these maps are preliminary and cannot be used for regulatory purposes, they provide valuable insights for property owners and can impact future flood insurance premiums.

Homeowners in Brunswick County should be aware that standard homeowners' insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. Therefore, it is highly recommended to obtain separate flood insurance, especially given the county's vulnerability to natural disasters. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), created by Congress in 1968, offers flood insurance policies backed by the Federal government. These policies are available to almost everyone, regardless of whether the property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). For properties within an SFHA, flood insurance premiums are determined based on factors such as the building type, number of floors, basement presence, and type of flood hazard area.

It is important to note that flood insurance policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before they become effective. Therefore, residents should not delay in purchasing or renewing their flood insurance coverage. By taking proactive measures, residents of Brunswick County can protect their properties and reduce the potential losses caused by flooding events.

Flood warnings

Brunswick County, North Carolina, consists of several flood zones, each carrying a different level of risk. In 2014, the state released new preliminary flood maps that more accurately reflect the flood risk in the county. These maps are available through the Brunswick County Geographic Information Services (GIS) and the North Carolina Flood Risk Information System (FRIS).

The flood zones in Brunswick County are categorized as follows:

Flood Zone X and Shaded X: These areas are considered low risk for flooding and are not currently regulated by ordinance.

VE Zones or Coastal High Hazard Areas: These zones are characterized by high-velocity wave action accompanying storm surges, which can cause severe damage to buildings.

Coastal A Zone: This zone is landward of a V-Zone or an open coast without mapped V-Zones. The primary sources of flooding in this area are astronomical tides, storm surges, seiches, or tsunamis, rather than riverine flooding.

AE Zones: These areas are impacted by storm surges but have diminished or absent wave action.

Flood Zone A: These areas are subject to a 1%-annual-chance flood event, meaning there is a 1% chance of flooding in any given year.

It is important to be aware of the flood risk in your area and take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your property. To determine your flood risk and zone, residents can visit Flood.NC.gov or call 910-253-2046. Additionally, Brunswick County offers a warning system that residents can sign up for to receive alerts. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

Flood preparation

Brunswick County, North Carolina, consists of several flood zones, including Flood Zone X and Shaded X, which are considered low risk and not currently regulated. However, other flood zones carry a more significant risk, and it is recommended that property owners and residents prepare for potential flooding. Here are some key flood preparation steps for residents of Brunswick County:

Know Your Risk

Firstly, it is essential to understand the flood risk in your specific area. Visit the Brunswick County Geographic Information Services (GIS) website or the North Carolina Flood Risk Information System (FRIS) to view the flood maps and determine if your property is located in a flood zone. Knowing your flood risk is crucial for preparedness and can also impact your insurance requirements and premiums.

Sign up for Alerts and Insurance

Sign up for Brunswick County's warning system, and familiarise yourself with the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, which provide timely emergency alerts. It is also highly recommended to purchase flood insurance, as homeowners' insurance policies typically do not cover flooding. Remember that it can take up to 30 days for a policy to take effect, so don't delay.

Make a Plan and Prepare Supplies

Develop a household plan that includes all family members and pets. Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response procedures. Gather emergency supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and several days' worth of water, in case you need to leave immediately or if services are disrupted in your area.

Protect Your Property and Important Documents

Take measures to protect your property, such as moving valuables and essential items to higher levels. Maintain clear drains and gutters, and consider installing check valves and a sump pump with a battery backup. Keep important documents in a waterproof container, and create password-protected digital copies to ensure their safety.

Evacuation and Safety Measures

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, leave the area immediately and never drive around barricades. Follow designated evacuation routes and shelter plans. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters—remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep away your vehicle. Stay off bridges over fast-moving water, as they can be washed away without warning.

Post-Flood Considerations

After a flood, be cautious of potential hazards when returning to your residence. Wear protective gear during cleanup, and avoid entering buildings with water leaks or mold if you have asthma or other lung conditions. Be aware of potential wildlife in your house, such as snakes, and the risk of electrocution from wet electrical equipment. Do not drink tap water until notified that it is safe, and be cautious of spoiled food. Contact your insurance company to initiate any necessary claims.

Flood damage prevention

Brunswick County, North Carolina, has several flood zones, each carrying a different level of risk. These zones are outlined in the county's flood maps, which were last updated in 2019. The flood maps are an important resource for residents to understand their flood risk and take appropriate measures to prevent flood damage.

The county's flood zones include Flood Zone X and Shaded X, which are considered low-risk areas with no current ordinance regulation. Other zones, such as the VE zones or Coastal High Hazard Areas, are at a much higher risk of flooding and have mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements. In these areas, high-velocity wave action accompanies storm surges, posing a severe threat to buildings and infrastructure.

To prevent flood damage, Brunswick County has adopted a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This program offers federally-subsidized flood insurance, providing significant savings in annual premiums for property owners. It also makes homeowners and business owners eligible for low-interest federal grants and loans from agencies like HUD and the SBA in the event of a federally declared disaster.

• Purchase flood insurance: Flood insurance is essential for residents, as standard homeowners' insurance policies do not cover flooding. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect, so it is important to plan ahead.
• Know your flood risk: Residents can visit Flood.NC.gov or call 910-253-2046 to determine their flood risk. Understanding the specific hazards, such as storm surges or flash floods, can help individuals prepare and take necessary precautions.
• Create an emergency plan: Develop a household plan that includes pets, designating safe evacuation routes, shelter options, and essential supplies to protect against flooding. Practising these plans and keeping necessary supplies readily available can ensure a swift and efficient response during a flood.
• Protect your property: Take measures to safeguard your property, such as moving valuables to higher levels, maintaining clear drains and gutters, and installing preventative features like check valves or sump pumps.
• Stay informed and follow instructions: Sign up for Brunswick County's warning system and pay attention to emergency alerts from the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio. Follow the instructions provided by local authorities during a flood to ensure your safety.
• Be cautious during floods: Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deceptively powerful and dangerous. Stay off bridges over fast-moving water, and if trapped in a vehicle or building, move to the highest level possible.

Frequently asked questions