Flood Maps
Interactive Maps
Interactive maps can be found at the links below.
Flood Zones
Visit the flood zones page to learn more about the various flood zones and other components of the flood maps.
Virginia Flood Risk Information System (VFRIS)
The Virginia Flood Risk Information System (VFRIS) is a collaboration between the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). VFRIS helps communities, real estate agents, property buyers and property owners discern an area's flood risk. VFRIS allows users to quickly locate and see if property is within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
The second phase of VFRIS was completed in October 2017. The tool now has flood depths, changes since the last FIRM, limit of moderate wave action (LiMWA), parcel boundaries, and the ability to download flood insurance studies and flood risk reports.
Access the system here.
Letters of Map Change (LOMC)
If a property owner thinks their property has been inadvertently mapped in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), they may submit a request to FEMA for a Letter of Map Change (LOMC). A SFHA is defined as the area that will be inundated by the flood event having a 1 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. A LOMC reflects an official revision/amendment to an effective Flood Insurance Rate Map. If the LOMC request is granted, property owners may be eligible for lower flood insurance premiums, or the option to not purchase flood insurance. Only FEMA can change the maps.
Property owners may also wish to contact the FEMA Map Information eXchange (FMIX), toll free at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) for assistance with the LOMC process. Interested applicants can also apply for LOMCs online.
View a listing of currently effective LOMCs in Portsmouth.