Abstract

Accurate floodplain maps are the key to better floodplain management. The days of expensive and unwieldy floodplain mapping by hand using paper maps are long gone. However, much of the analysis in floodplain management studies is still performed using separate modeling and mapping programs, which is less efficient than an integrated modeling and mapping approach. Today, new technologies, such as geographical information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS) and remote sensing are helping floodplain managers to create accurate and current floodplain maps, with improved efficiency and speed, and at a reasonable cost. Today, it is possible to create floodplain maps that are dynamically linked to hydrologic and hydraulic models. This linkage allows more efficient map updates if the hydrologic or hydraulic parameters are changed. This chapter describes the latest technology and applications for developing floodplain models and maps. Examples and case studies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s map modernization (Map Mod) and new risk mapping, assessment and planning (Risk MAP) programs, are discussed to illustrate the advances in floodplain modeling and mapping applications.

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