New Hanover County announced this week that local officials and residents can now appeal proposed flood hazard information and preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS) for the area.

The 90-day appeal period began Thursday.

The county has worked with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the N.C. Floodplain Mapping Program to publish the preliminary FIRMS. Also available is a Flood Insurance Study report for all areas of the county.

“If finalized, these flood hazard determinations will become the basis for the floodplain management measures that New Hanover County must adopt, or show evidence of having in effect, to remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program,” the county’s news release stated.

Criteria for appeals of Flood Insurance Rate Maps can be found here.