CLEARWATER, Fla. — Clearwater residents near the Alligator Creek Watershed may soon face new flood insurance requirements after FEMA issued updated flood maps for the area.
The new maps could take effect as early as mid-2027.
Watch report from Maya Sargent
Gene Henry, Clearwater's floodplain administrator, said the City submitted information to FEMA for review because of severe weather impacts in the area.
"We know that area had repetitive flooding and there was a lot of flooding in areas that were not identified on the flood insurance rate map," said Henry.
The highlighted zones on the new maps show areas where properties are at risk of flooding. According to Henry, federal regulation requires anyone with a federally backed loan or mortgage to carry flood protection for the building if their property falls within a designated flood zone.
"Some people may have a huge retirement fund that they can borrow from or even, you know, go to, but the insurance is a way to help you recover and go back to some level of normalcy," said Henry.
Residents can check whether their property is affected by visiting the City's website and typing in their address. From there, users can toggle to the preliminary map to see if their home falls within flood hazard areas.
There is also an option to "Request Info" if you want advice and guidance from the City. City staff can also point you to some of their insurance partners for help.
Residents can appeal this new map by submitting their comments with supporting evidence. The city will compile the information and send it to FEMA for review.
If you have more questions, the City is hosting information sessions in the fall: two in Clearwater and one in Safety Harbor — where residents can ask questions
The city is also hosting a range of information sessions in the fall — 2 in Clearwater and 1 in Safety Harbor — where residents can ask questions.
Open House Information:
Sept. 12, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. & Nov. 10, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — East Community Library, 2465 Drew Street
Sept. 30, 4-7 p.m. — Safety Harbor Public Library, 101 2nd St. N.
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Tampa Bay 28 reporter Maya Sargent is here to highlight the triumphs and explore the concerns from her neighbors in North Pinellas County. From Clearwater to Tarpon Springs and everywhere in between - fill out the form below to connect with Maya.
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