Friday, April 26, 2013

National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) Updates Postponed


Typically, the National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) is updated on a daily basis as newly effective Letters of Map Revision (LOMRs) and flood study data are incorporated.  From April 24th to June 21st, 2013, NFHL data will not be updated while planned improvements are made to the system. NFHL data and traditional products will remain available through the existing channels.  Although the NFHL will not be updated during this time, the traditional products will represent current available flood hazard information.  For more information about the NFHL “data freeze”, please see the Question and Answer section below.

For additional questions about NFHL data, please contact the FEMA Map Information eXchange by calling 1-877 FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Will NFHL data still be available?
A: NFHL data services are still available but will not be updated between 5/24 – 6/21. NFHL data can still be accessed via:
o   the MIP Map Viewer;
o   Google Earth (NFHL KMZ);
o   the NFHL Web Mapping Service (WMS); and
o   the REST service for FEMA’s MAC and Geoportal

Q: Will Flood Hazard information that becomes effective during the NFHL “data freeze” be available?
A: Effective data is available for purchase/download from the MSC Store during this time (including studies and LOMCs that become effective during the NFHL “data freeze”), including:
o   LOMC pdfs;
o   FIRM & FIRMettes;
o   FIS Reports; and
o   FIRM Databases.
-          Hardcopy data delivery to community officials will not be interrupted.

Q: How will users know what data has gone effective during the NFHL “data freeze”?
A: The Product Availability page on the Map Service Center (MSC) website lists studies that will go effective during NFHL “data freeze”. As studies and LOMR go effective, they will be listed on a NFHL DATA Freeze Queue spreadsheet that will be available on the MSC Product Availability page and sorted by state and county. This will allow users to check for data that has become effective since the NFHL data freeze      

Q: What are the benefits of this project?
A: There are several:
-          This upgrade positions the NFHL to better meet the demands of the digital age:
o   NFHL digital downloads by community (when Phase 2 is complete by October 2013);
o   A modernized GIS software engine;
o   Updates NFHL schema to the new FIRM Database specifications for more efficient data production and distribution and a more effective use of datasets;
o   Focus on improved GIS services over outdated viewers; and
o   Capacity for longer term performance improvements and flexibility for growth with more efficient data management.
-          Google Earth KMZs will be improved to increase ease-of-use and align symbology with the more familiar FIRM Scan product that is used for FIRMettes.
-          NFHL REST services will now be publicly available for heavy users that desire constant updates for the whole nation.

Q: Where can I learn more about the NFHL?
A: Contact the FEMA Map Information eXchange by calling 1-877 FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627)

No comments:

Post a Comment