The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been working to update its floodplain maps in our area. Preliminary maps have now been released and there is a 90-day public appeal period before the maps are finalized. 

It is important to view the preliminary maps because if your property is in or near a flood zone, there may be impacts on your property. These flood hazard determinations are the basis for local floodplain management measures, as well as keeping the community qualified for the National Flood Insurance Program. 

The appeal process opens on February 7 and will remain open for 90 days. Property owners who believe their property rights will be adversely affected by the proposed flood hazard determinations may submit an appeal to the City of Kirksville, which would then be submitted to FEMA. Only appeals of the proposed hazard determinations supported by scientific or technical data will be considered. 

Click here for more information on appeals and comments. To submit an appeal or comment with the City of Kirksville, contact Code Enforcement Director Reid Yardley, the local floodplain administrator, by calling 660.627.1272 or emailing ryardley@kirksville.gov. 

Below are instructions on how to view the map. 

For additional info on the 90-day appeal period and the full list of communities affected, click here or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627). Specialists at the FMIX Customer Care Center can help you with questions about flood mapping and insurance. 

Instructions to view the preliminary map (Please note that the site can be slow in loading)

• Go to https://amecei.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=2ac0864241b747b4b11302f2c4cc7bc9.
• Zoom in on Kirksville
• Click the fourth circle from the left on the bottom of the page. It should say Preliminary when you hover over it.
• When the window opens, select Preliminary Special Flood Hazard Areas to see the proposed map
• The hashed area is the floodway, where construction is very tough to get approved. 
• The blue area is the 100-year floodplain, where there are restrictions and requirements that must be met to build in.
• The orange area is the 200-year floodplain, which is not regulated at this time. However, it is important to note for prospective buyers or contractors. 

Additional Links

FEMA

Missouri floodplain management programs

Flood hazard determinations notice