Notice To Residents Regarding The Special Flood Hazard Area
The Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is the area subject to inundation by a l00-year flood, as shown on the current Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) compiled by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This notice is designed to make you more aware of local flood hazards, the need to keep flood insurance in force, and other topics related to flood preparedness. Please take a few minutes to review all of the items presented and determine what actions you may need to take in order to protect yourself.
Flooding may be a real hazard in your area of town. Properties around the Washita River, Line and Congo Creeks are most susceptible to inundation during the 100-year flood event. Recent heavy rains in August of 2007caused flooding and damage to buildings within these areas.
What You Can Do:
Rake up and bag leaves as often as possible before storms. Leaves clogging storm drains are the primary source of most flood occurrences. Do not dump or throw anything into drainage ditches or streams—it is a violation of the City Code. Even grass clippings and branches can accumulate and plug channels and outfall structures. Blocked drainage ways simply cannot carry water, and when it rains the water has to go somewhere. Every piece of litter contributes to flooding.
Clean drains around your home, including roof gutters, downspouts, drain inlets, pipes. drainage ditches and driveway culverts.
Always check with the Community Development Department (222-6010) before you build on, alter, regrade, or fill on your property. Permit(s) may be required to ensure that projects do not cause problems on other properties.
If you do not have flood Insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Homeowner's insurance policies do not cover damage from floods.
Get at least three quotes on flood insurance.
During A Flood Watch:
Listen to the radio for news; bring outdoor belongings indoors. If time permits, move valuable possessions to the upper floors or to safe ground. Be prepared to evacuate and. if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Report local flooding or severe runoff to your Maintenance or Police Department (Call 222-6050).
During A Flood—Flood Safety:
Listen to the radio for news; if told to evacuate, do so immediately. The Chickasha emergency radio station is 105.5 FM. Do not walk through flowing water. If you are in a car do not drive through a flooded area.
The above information is presented in an effort to remind all residents that flooding is a real hazard . Additional information regarding flood hazards in Chickasha, and possible floodproofing measures for structures, may be found at the Chickasha Public Library, and on the City’s website. Should you have any specific questions regarding the FIRM, please call the Emergency Management Director at 222-6000.
Last updated February 4, 2008