FEMA draws new Chehalis flood maps

The first Chehalis River Federal Emergency Management Agency flood maps drawn in more than 25 years won't be available until mid-March, but some Lewis County officials already are concerned after getting a glimpse of some potential changes, according to The Chronicle of Centralia.

“There are stark changes between the 1981 map and the current map because of the 2007 flood,” Lewis County Commissioner Ron Averill said after getting a quick look at a pre-draft copy of the maps late last week. “It appeared that (FEMA) gave too much credit to the 2007 flood.”

Averill said large portions of land will be considered in the floodplain and floodway if changes aren’t made between now and March. What happens during that time will have a huge effect on numerous residents, as well as development.

Lewis County Emergency Management Deputy Director Ross McDowell said it would be wise for property owners to look at getting flood insurance now, before the changes take effect.