The City of Pompano Beach
Flood Hazard
This Information Could Save You Money!
INSIDE 3
Flood Insurance
About 85% of Pompano Beach property is located in a flood hazard area
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National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Overview
Standard property insurance does not cover flood damage
4 Flood Hazard Over 85% of the residents of the City of Pompano Beach live within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) 4 Natural and Beneficial Functions Flood plains should be considered in their natural context 5 Stormwater Management Master Plan Pompano Beach has experienced localized flooding problems for many years 5 Drainage System Management Proper drainage helps reduce the risk of flooding 6 Flood Hazard Information Affordable flood insurance (NFIP)
7 Map Determinations We provide Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) determinations to let you know if you are in a flood hazard area. 9 Property Protection Advice Get information on how to retrofit your property for a flood 9
Property Protection Measures
Property protection measures should be taken
9 Flood Safety Avoid flood waters, fallen electrical lines, animals, gas leaks, etc. 11
Substantial Improvements Requirements
Substantial improvement is defined according to the City’s Code of Ordinances
11 Flood Plain Development Permit Requirements The City has adopted regulations for floodplain development 11 Elevation Certificates Personnel are available to provide map determinations to advise you 12 Severe Weather Watches & Warnings Definitions These watches are generally issued for flooding that is expected to occur at least 6 hours after heavy rains have ended
Flood Hazard Prevention About 85 % of the property in the City of Pompano Beach is located in a flood hazard area. Your property is in or near the flood hazard area as mapped by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The following information may be of interest to you. This information is offered to help protect your property and reduce potential losses due to flooding. The City of Pompano Beach is dedicated to assisting our residents and businesses to reduce the hazardous effects of flooding in our community.
F lood Insurance Standard property insurance does not cover flood damage;
the past. Most mortgage lenders require flood insurance for
however, flood insurance is available in the City of Pompano
properties in the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). All
Beach. Flood insurance covers losses to your property caused
properties secured by a federally backed mortgage (FHA, VA,
by flooding, such as structural and mechanical damage, flood
FNMA, etc.) must carry flood insurance. It takes 30 days after
debris cleanup and floor surfaces (like tile and carpeting).
purchase for a policy to take effect, so it’s important to buy
In addition, you can purchase separate coverage that insures
insurance before the floodwaters start to rise. In high risk areas
most of your personal property and belongings. You are eligible
such as ours, there is a 26% chance that a home will experience
to purchase flood insurance regardless of whether your
a flood over the course of a 30 year mortgage.
property has never flooded or has flooded several times in
Pom p a n o B e a ch Fl o o d H a z a rd s
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National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Overview In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program
The City of Pompano Beach actively participates in the CRS
(NFIP) to provide affordable flood insurance to people who live
program and currently holds a Class 8 CRS rating. This
in areas with the greatest risk of flooding called Special Flood
classification equates to a 10% discount on new or renewed
Hazard Areas (SFHAs). The NFIP makes federally backed flood
flood insurance policies.
insurance available in communities that agree to adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood
There are approximately 28,300 flood insurance policies in the
damage.
City of Pompano Beach. Annually the City’s CRS Class 8 rating
The Community Rating System (CRS) is a program developed by the Federal Insurance Administration to provide incentives for
NFIP
communities
that
implement
more
stringent
flood SM plain management standards than the minimum NFIP requirements.
The
CRS
rewards
these
efforts
with
will generate approximately $823,000 in savings on flood premiums for you, our valued residents and businesses. Furthermore, the City is pursuing a Class 7 CRS rating, which equates to a 15% discount on flood insurance policies. This newsletter is part of the effort to move to a Class 7 CRS rating.
discounts on flood insurance premiums for their valued residents and businesses.
Flood Hazard Over 85% of the residents of the City of Pompano Beach live
munities can increase the likelihood of canal flooding in the City
within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). The entire city can
of Pompano Beach.
be considered flood prone. There are many different types of flooding that occur, and there are many factors that affect the type and severity of a flood. As land is converted from fields or woodlands to roads and parking lots, it loses its ability to absorb rainfall. Urbanization increases runoff two to six times over what would occur on natural terrain. The following are some of the more common types of floods experienced in South Florida, including the City of Pompano Beach. • Canal Flooding: Some floods occur seasonally when rain fills canals with too much water, too quickly. Torrential rains from hurricanes or tropical storms can also produce canal flooding. The Pompano Canal and Cypress Creek Canal both have large drainage basins which include other cities besides Pompano Beach. Stormwater from these upstream communities eventually empties out into the Atlantic Ocean through these canals. The cumulative impact of stormwater from the upstream com-
• Tidal Flooding: Waterways are influenced by tides that contribute to drainage/flood problems. When there is a high tide and heavy rainfall, the storm drainage systems will rapidly fill from both surface run-off and tidal waters, increasing the likelihood of flood conditions in our streets, swale areas and lawns. Much of the city’s storm drainage system empties/discharges into lakes and canals, which connect eventually to the Pompano Canal or the Cypress Creek Canal. • Severe Weather Flooding: A flood event is usually triggered by a large sudden downpour. The effects of the downpour are worsened when terrain will not absorb water. Reasons for lack of absorption vary due to soil type, lack of vegetation, slope, paved areas, or saturation of the soil by previous rains. Flooding is localized and water levels range between 1-2 feet.
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Natural and Beneficial Functions Flood plains should be considered in their natural context. They
it cleaner for those downstream. Sand dunes on the beach are
are more than just hazardous locations. Open and natural areas
nature’s protection to inland areas from waves and tides
absorb much more rain and floodwaters than urbanized areas,
accompanying major coastal storms. Beach revegatation is an
reducing flood flows on downstream properties. Flood plains
ongoing process in the City of Pompano Beach. In both Broward
can also be beneficial in their ability to recharge the Biscayne
County and City of Pompano Beach, there are many policies
Aquifer and replenish the City’s potable water supply. Wetland
intended to protect coastal resources that could, in turn,
plants, such as mangrove trees, filter stormwater runoff, making
decrease the risk from storm surge and flooding.
Stormwater Management Master Plan The City of Pompano Beach has experienced localized
swales, retention/detention ponds and enhanced operations and
flooding problems for many years. The localized flooding
management practices.
problems are attributed to the relatively flat terrain, a high groundwater table and lack of drainage systems. As a result,
The City of Pompano Beach completed the top twenty
the City hired Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan to prepare a
priority projects and asked Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan to
Stormwater Management Master Plan.
perform the same engineering analyses for the next top twenty priority projects. Phase 2 was completed in November 2002.
Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan analyzed the City’s drainage patterns and divided the City into 33 major drainage basins. The 33
Between 2002 and 2008 over eight (8) million dollars was spent
major drainage basins were further sub-divided into a total of 112
on the highest priority sub-basins. The City’s Capital Improvement
sub-basins. The sub-basins were analyzed to determine appropri-
Program estimates nearly nine (9) million dollars in drainage
ate remedies. The analyses took into consideration both qualita-
revenues will be derived from the Stormwater Utility through
tive and quantitative factors including historic drainage problem
2013. The estimated cost to complete the remaining second
areas, runoff quantity, water quality and groundwater recharge
twenty (20) drainage projects is approximately 11.7 million dollars.
potential. Each sub-basin was evaluated for its overall performance and then ranked in order of it’s problem severity.
Properties annexed in 2000 through 2004 will be evaluated and considered in the 2011 stormwater master plan currently
Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan performed engineering analy-
underway. Broward County is currently making major in-
ses to recommend design improvements and cost estimates on
frastructure improvements (including drainage) in the an-
the top twenty priority sub-basins. Suggested improvements
nexed areas as part of the North County Improvement
included both structural and non-structural controls that ad-
Program. Improvements have been completed in Cresthaven,
dress the stormwater management problems previously iden-
and part of the Kendall Green area. Improvements in the
tified. Improvements include installation of positive drainage
Pompano Highlands and Leisureville/Pompano Estates are to be
pipes, exfiltration trenches, commonly known as French drains,
completed by 2013.
Pom p a n o B e a ch Fl o o d H a z a rd s
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Drainage System Management Proper drainage helps reduce the risk of flooding. It is a
several stormwater providers, including the City, Broward County,
violation of our City ordinances to dump debris of any sort,
DOT, and private owners. All private stormwater management
including grass clippings into canals or storm drains. The
facilities are required to maintain their own systems. For
Department of Utilities inspects the drainage system and
more information and to report violations call Stormwater
removes blockages that are found or reported. You can
Utility at 954-786-4637. Illegal dumping should be reported to
help keep swale areas and catch basins clear by not piling
Broward County at 954-591-1499.
debris on top or nearby. The City of Pompano Beach has
Flood Hazard Information • Flood Warning System: The City of Pompano Beach and Broward County depend on the National Weather Service (NWS) for flood notification. The NWS will issue flood advisories at least six (6) hours prior to expected heavy rainfall and possible flooding. The City has a citywide flood warning plan to provide early warning to neighborhoods that might experience exceptional flooding. Broadcast methods of emergency notices include Comcast Government Access channel 78. The City of Pompano Beach also utilizes the CodeRED Emergency Notification system, which allows the City to notify any geographical area, or any predetermined “target buildings” via telephone, of an impending emergency. All residents and businesses must keep the City informed of current telephone numbers for the CodeRED System. Evacuation routes include Atlantic Blvd., Sample Road, Interstate 95 and Florida’s Turnpike. Areas of Special Flood Hazards are defined as the land in the floodplain subject to a one percent (1%) or greater chance of flooding in any given year. These areas are designated on the city flood criteria map on the following page as flood hazard
elevations derived from detailed hydraulic analyses are shown. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply. • Zone AE: Areas subject to inundation by the one percent (1%) annual chance flood event determined by detailed methods. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply. • Zone VE: Areas along the coast subject to inundation by the one percent (1%) annual chance flood event with additional hazards associated with storm induced waves. Because detailed hydraulic analyses have not been performed, no flood depths or base flood elevations are shown. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements apply • Zone X: Areas identified as having moderate or minimal hazard from the principal source of flooding in the area, however, buildings in these areas could be flooded by severe, concentrated rainfall coupled with inadequate drainage systems. Flood insurance is available but is not required by regulation in these zones. Residents can apply for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) to
zones, AH, AE and VE.
be issued to remove the structure from the SFHA, NFIP regu-
• Zone AH: Areas subject to inundation by the one percent (1%) annual chance of shallow flooding (usually areas of
ground touching the structure) be at or above the base flood
ponding) where average depths are 1 to 3 feet. Base flood
must be at or above the base flood elevation.
lation which requires that the lowest adjacent grade (lowest elevation. To remove the entire lot, the lowest point on the lot
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The City of Pompano Beach Flood Zone Map
Map Determinations The City of Pompano Beach provides Flood
Insurance
Rate
Map
(FIRM)
determinations to let you know if you are in a flood hazard area. A generalized map for the City of Pompano Beach is shown to
the
Maps
right. are
Inspection and
The
detailed
available
in
Division.
You
request
a
flood
the
6
Building
may
call
hazard
area
determination at 954-786-4670.
Pom p a n o B e a ch Fl o o d H a z a rd s
Floodplain
This product has been compiled from various source data from the City of Pompano Beach. However, this product is for reference purposes only and is not to be construed as a legal document or survey instrument. Any reliance on the information contained herein is at the user’s own risk. The City of Pompano Beach assumes no responsibility for any use of the information contained herein or any loss resulting there from.
Note: This map will be updated in September 2011. Once it’s been posted it can be view by visiting: www.broward.org/Regulation/Engineering/FloodZoneMaps/Pages/Default.aspx 7
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Property Protection Advice Information on how to perform residential retrofitting or
your property from flooding. Upon request a representative will
commercial flood proofing is available at the Pompano Beach
visit your property to review potential flooding problems and
Public Library. Building Inspection Division personnel are
to explain options to prevent flood damage. Call the Building
available to provide information at no charge, on how to protect
Inspection Division, 954-786-4670, for more information.
Property Protection Measures Property protection measures should be taken with the onset
and washers and dryers to higher locations to reduce the
of a flood or if your home is susceptible to flooding,
potential for flood damage to valuable equipment.
retrofitting should be considered. If flooding is likely, and time permits, move essential items and furniture to upper areas of
Flood-proofing,
installing
floodgates
and
making
walls
your home.
waterproof are among the common ways to structurally protect commercial property. Residential structures are
Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and
typically required to be elevated higher than anticipated
lumber handy for emergency waterproofing. This action will
floodwaters.
help to minimize the amount of property damage caused by Prior to hurricane season, take measures that protect against
flood waters.
high winds, such as installing storm shutters and reinforced Retrofitting involves modifications of surrounding terrain and
garage doors.
your home to minimize the risk of flooding. You should take surrounding properties into consideration. Modification to your
A Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant can be obtained to
home can include waterproofing the walls, elevating electric
assist residents in retrofitting their homes. Please contact the
panel boxes, air conditioning units, pool and irrigation pumps,
Building Inspection Division, 954-786-4670 for more information.
Flood Safety Do not walk through flood waters. Drowning is the
traffic from flooded streets to protect vehicles in a flood
number one cause of death during a flood. Currents can be
event. Driving through flooded areas will not only damage
deceptive; six inches of moving water can cause you to lose
your vehicle but will cause a wake forcing water into homes and
your balance. If you must walk in standing water, use a pole
businesses, and thus causing damage.
or stick to ensure that the ground is stable and level before walking on it.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The number two killer in a flood after drowning is electrocution.
Do not drive through flooded areas. More people drown
Electrical currents can travel through water. Report downed
in their cars than anywhere else. Do not disregard road
power lines to Florida Power & Light (FPL) at 800-468-8243 or
barriers as the road may be washed out or severely affected.
to the Broward Sheriff’s Office at 954-786-4200.
City police and public works employees, typically divert
Pom p a n o B e a ch Fl o o d H a z a rd s
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Have your electricity and other utilities, including gas, turned off. Some appliances such as television sets, hold electrical charges even after they have been unplugged. Avoid using appliances or motors, which have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried. If you are advised to evacuate, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Disconnect electrical appliances, but do not touch any electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. Be ready for the unexpected. Place important documents inside plastic bags or other water proof containers. Review your insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage. Know what type of coverage you have. Most policies cover wind storm damage, but not flooding. Any policy change usually takes thirty (30) days before going into effect.
• If you plan to keep your boat in the canal, be sure to double the dock lines, leaving sufficient space for the tidal range, and put out extra anchors. Don’t forget to remove all marine electronics or other unsecured equipment. • Sail boaters should remove self-furling sails and Bimini tops. • Boats on davits should be preferably stored in an enclosed facility (dry dock or garage) or secured with extra tie lines to keep the boat from swinging during high winds. |
Pet safety tips
• Remember during a flood or hurricane, most evacuation centers will not accept pets. So make plans in advance to board your pets in an animal kennel or with friends. In order to find a shelter that will accept your pet, you must pre-register with the Humane Society by calling 954-989-3977.
Look out for animals, especially snakes. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn things over and scare away small animals.
• Plan Ahead: Talk to a friend or family member who lives in an area that is not expected to be affected by the hurricane. Ask if their home would be open to you and your pet should a storm
Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris, including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very
• Be responsible: Do not leave your pet at home during a hurricane. A secure room and a few days’ food and water do not necessarily mean safety for your pet. Keep a current picture
slippery.
of your pet for identification purposes.
Be alert for gas leaks. If you use natural gas, use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles or lanterns or open flames unless you know that the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated. Gas leaks can be reported to Teco Peoples Gas at 1.877.TECO.PGS (1.877.832.6747).
|
threaten.
If you must evacuate
• If you must leave it outside, anchor the trailer firmly into stable soil, deflate the tires and ensure the boat is secure to the
Most importantly, evacuate immediately if told to do so. If you must evacuate, try to move to the house of a friend or family member not affected by the impending high waters. If you live in a mobile home, evacuate at first notice of the emergency. Rehearse your evacuation plan with all household members. Plan to leave early to avoid any traffic delays. Try to have a prearranged method of contacting your neighbors and family if you have to leave your home. If possible, before you evacuate, inform each other of places where you will be staying with contact phone numbers and addresses. For shelter information contact the Red Cross (Broward County Chapter) at 954-797-3800. Residents with special needs can register for a “Special Needs Shelter” by calling 954-357-6385
trailer. If possible fill the bilge with water, which adds extra weight.
or TTY 954-357-5608.
|
Securing Boats
• If you own a boat, it is your responsibility to secure it. As a boat owner, you should plan in advance to move your boat or arrange for its storage. Check with a local marina for suitable alternatives. If possible, store it inside a garage or warehouse.
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Substantial Improvement Requirements Substantial improvement is defined according to the City of
tions which have been identified by the local code compliance
Pompano Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 152.21, as “Any
official
reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvement
assure safe living conditions; or (2) any alteration of a “historic
of a structure, the cumulative cost of which equals or exceeds
structure,” provided that the alteration will not preclude the
fifty percent (50%) of the building’s market value before the
structure’s continued designation as a historic structure.
and
which
are
the
minimum
necessary
to
“start of construction” of the improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred “substantial damage”, regardless
The building must meet the same construction requirements
of the actual repair work performed.
as a new building. This includes minimum or base flood floor elevations as determined by the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
The term does not, however, include (1) any project for
Substantially damaged buildings must also be brought up to
improvement of a structure to correct existing violations
the same standards.
of state or local health, sanitary or safety code specifica-
Floodplain Development Permit Requirements The City of Pompano Beach has adopted regulations for
The City of Pompano Beach regulates development within the
floodplain
the
natural floodplains through the City’s development review
alteration of the natural floodplains. They prevent and
process whereby building or engineering permits are required
regulate the construction of flood barriers which may
prior to construction, filling or otherwise altering the natural
unnaturally divert floodwaters, or which may increase
elevations of a site. Prior to commencing any site development
flood
also
or construction work, please contact the Building Inspection
erosion
Division at 954-786-4670 or Engineering Department at
resulting from flood heights and velocities causing damage
954-786-4506, so that the appropriate permits may be
to structures.
secured or to report violations.
restrict
development.
hazards or
in
These
other
prohibit
uses
regulations
areas. which
These may
control
regulations increase
Elevation Certificates The Building Inspection Division personnel are available to provide map determinations to advise you if you are in a flood hazard area. Elevation certificates for new construction and substantial improvements in the flood plain are also available from the Building Inspection Division. Please call 954-786-4670 for more information
Pom p a n o B e a ch Fl o o d H a z a rd s
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0
Severe Weather Watches and Warnings Definitions • Flood Watch: High flow or overflow of water from a river is
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm
possible in the given time period. It can also apply to heavy
has actually been sighted by spotters or indicated on radar and
runoff or drainage of water into low lying areas. These watches
is occurring or imminent in the warning area.
are generally issued for flooding that is expected to occur at • Hurricane/Tropical Storm Watch: Hurricane/Tropical
least 6 hours after heavy rains have ended.
Storm conditions are possible in the specified area of the watch, • Flood Warning: Flooding conditions are actually occurring or
usually within 48 hours of the onset of tropical storm force
are imminent in the warning area.
winds. During a Watch, prepare your home and review your plan
• Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible in or close to the watch area. Flash Flood Watches are generally issued for
for evacuation in case a Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning is issued. Listen closely to instructions from local officials.
flooding that is expected to occur within 6 hours after heavy
• Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning: Hurricane/Tropical
rains have ended.
Storm conditions are expected in the specified area of the
• Flash Flood Warning: Flash flooding is actually occurring or imminent in the warning area. • Tornado
Watch:
Conditions
Warning, usually within 36 hours of the onset of tropical storm force winds. Complete storm preparations and immediately leave the threatened area if directed by local officials.
are
conducive
to
the
development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. • Tornado Warning: A tornado has actually been sighted by spotters or indicated on radar and is occurring or imminent in the warning area.
• Extreme Wind Warning: Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane (115 mph or greater), usually associated with the eye wall, are expected to begin within an hour. Take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure. • Additional Watches & Warnings: Issued to provide detailed information on specific threats such as floods and
• Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Conditions are conducive to
tornadoes. Local National Weather Service offices issue Flash
the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the
Flood/Flood Watches and Warnings as well as Tornado Warnings.
watch area.
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City of Pompano Beach
PRESORT STANDARD US
P.O. Drawer 1300 SM
POSTAGE PAID
Pompano Beach, FL 33061
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL PERMIT No. 1146
CITY OF POMPANO BEACH COMMISSION M ayo r L a ma r F i s her :: 954. 786. 4623
| Vic e Ma y or Ge or ge Br umme r :: Dis tr ic t 5 • 9 5 4 . 7 8 6 . 4 6 1 8
Commissioner Charlotte Burrie :: District 2 • 954.786.4625 | Commissioner Barry Dockswell :: District 1 • 954.786.4619 Commissioner Rex Hardin :: District 3 • 954.786.4649 | Commissioner Woodrow Poitier :: District 4 • 954.786.4624
Development Services Director Robin M. Bird 954.786.4634 • Principal Planner & CRS Coordinator Jean Dolan 954.786.5554