Summary

Description

National Weather Service (NWS) Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS) Flood Inundation Map (FIM) Libraries include maps ranging from minor flooding through major or record flooding, whichever is greater. At AHPS locations where the libraries have been implemented, Emergency Managers are able to see the spatial extent of flooding for various river stage levels, enhance coordination with NWS, and enable more informed decisions for flood preparedness, response, and mitigation. Flood maps depicting the spatial extent and depth of floodwaters, linked to National Weather Service (NWS) river forecasts and warnings, provide critical decision support information to FEMA regional Offices, emergency managers, and other local officials before and during a flood. These data can be used to support flood plain management, enhance Emergency Action Plans, and facilitate proactive efforts to preposition people and resources to save lives and property.