New research funded by the UNC Collaboratory revealed that 90,000 buildings have experienced flooding over 24 years, some repetitively.

While FEMA has improved the accuracy and accessibility of the maps over time with better data, digital tools and community input, the maps still don't capture everything.

FEMA flood maps are essential tools for identifying flood risks, but they have significant coverage gaps, and politics can get in the way.

FEMA’s maps are essential tools for identifying flood risks, but they have significant gaps that limit their effectiveness.

In theory, the maps enable homeowners, businesses and local officials to understand their flood risk and take appropriate steps to prepare and mitigate potential losses. But while FEMA has improved ...