Flood Maps Anger N.J. Homeowners

Federal Emergency Management Administration officials have unleashed a torrent of complaints over new flood-zone maps in Monmouth County’s Bayshore region.

The proposed maps show nearly 4,400 more homes at risk in Keansburg, Middletown, Hazlet and Union Beach. Residents questioned FEMA officials about the flood risk and the cost of insurance during a recent public meeting.

FEMA officials say more precise flood measurement technology is available and man-made buffers that provided protection have deteriorated. FEMA executives advised residents to purchase insurance before the maps become permanent in roughly a year to be “grandfathered” in at lower premiums.