As we head into the peak of what is projected to be an above-average hurricane season, FEMA is urging communities to prepare before the height of hurricane season. The agency announced important resources to help people before, during, and after a disaster, including a new FEMA webpage to help the public protect themselves and their property from the nation’s number one disaster – flooding.

The new FEMA webpage is a one-stop shop to help the public understand how to protect themselves and their property during flooding events. Indeed, since hurricanes and other tropical storms create high winds and heavy rainfall that can cause intense flooding, it’s important to understand the potential flood risk facing your community. Consequently, FEMA’s new webpage includes free resources and information to learn about, understand and take action to reduce flood risk. One of the new tools, the FEMA Flood Map Service Center, allows users to enter a street address to learn more about flood risks in their community and includes other informational resources about flood maps, flood zones, flood risk and flood insurance. Additionally, WaterISAC has previously shared FEMA risk assessment tools, that utilities can use to assess their localized risks to different kinds of natural hazards, including hurricanes and flooding.

“My message to the public is this: identify your risks, have a plan and act today. The best way to help yourself, your family and your community recover after a disaster is by taking steps now, before it’s too late,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Remember, just because your area was not touched by a hurricane in the past few years, does not mean it will be spared this time around.” Read more at FEMA.