FEMA Maps Show Some Phoenix Metro Homeowners Live in Flood Areas

Federal officials are telling hundreds of property owners across the Phoenix metro area they live in a designated flood plain that could force them to purchase costly flood insurance.

Maricopa County officials say parts of the west side, Chandler, Gilbert and Scottsdale are some of the most populated areas affected by new Federal Emergency Management Agency flood-insurance-rate maps.

The Arizona Republic reports FEMA is updating the maps, which identify additional “high-risk” areas for flooding. A manager for the Maricopa County Flood Control District says the cost for flood insurance typically ranges from $400 to $800 a year or more, depending on the property.

Residents have the chance to appeal the designations, which require them to purchase flood insurance if they have a federally backed mortgage loan.