Federal Officials Plan Revision of Maui Flood Maps

An estimated 340 Maui properties could be affected by plans by federal officials to revise maps of flood-prone areas.

Such a change could force flood insurance rates to increase substantially.

Carol Tyau-Beam, Hawaii coordinator for the National Flood Insurance Program, says premiums could rise from $1,300 to $6,000 a year. She says property owners should consider buying insurance before the new maps become effective next October 2009.

The last revision of flood maps in the county occurred in 1981.

The areas of most concern are Waikapu Stream, Iao Stream and the South Maui areas of Kamaole Gulch and Kaluaihakiki Stream.

An informational meeting on the revision is set for 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, 2009, at the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center in Wailuku, Hawaii.

Topics Flood