If you live near the Pajaro River, the Salsipuedes or Corralitos Creeks, you may be located in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), also known as the 100-year floodplain. Each year, properties within the SFHA face a one percent chance of being impacted by a 100-year flood. A house located within a SFHA has a 26% chance of being damaged by a 100-year flood during the life of a 30-year mortgage. Lesser floods can occur more frequently still posing considerable hazards, especially in areas close to the river and creeks.

MAP INFORMATION SERVICE

The City of Watsonville offers Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) information service to the community, including:

• The flood zone designation
• The community number
• The panel number and suffix
• The date of the FIRM's index
• The base flood elevation (datum is NGVD)

Call the Community Development Department at 768-3050 or visit them at 250 Main Street, Watsonville. Flood protection references are also available at the Watsonville Public Library located at 275 Main Street, Watsonville.

FLOOD INSURANCE

The National Flood Insurance program (NFIP) makes flood insurance available to everyone in the City. The City of Watsonville participates in the Community Rating System. Currently residents benefit with up to 15% reduction of their flood insurance premiums. Property owners can insure their buildings and contents, while renters can insure their possessions. For information about flood insurance, call your insurance agent, NFIP customer service (800-638-6620), or visit http://www.floodsmart.gov/

FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

Special regulations apply to the development or improvement of properties in the 100-year floodplain. Grading and filling operations are restricted. New or substantial improvement of residential buildings requires construction of the lowest floor at a minimum of one foot above the base flood elevation and appropriate openings in foundation walls. Site-specific information and requirementes can be explained by your architect, engineer, or by the Community Development Department.

FEMA ELEVATION CERTIFICATES

An Elevation Certificate (EC) provides elevation information necessary to determine the proper insurance premium rate. If your house is at or above the base flood elevation, you could receive a substantial discount on your flood insurance premium by providing an EC to your insurance agent. The City of Watsonville maintains an archive of FEMA Elevation Certificates for recent projects within the 100-year floodplain.

New or substantial improvement of residential buildings within the SFHA requires an Elevation Certificate prepared by a professional land surveyor, engineer, or architect to certify floor elevations. For forms, contact FEMA (800-480-2520), or pick them up at the Community Development Department, 250 Main Street, Watsonville (768-3050).

PROPERTY PROTECTION MEASURES

The safety of you and your family is the most important consideration. Since floodwaters can rise rapidly, you should be prepared to evacuate before the water level reaches your property. Precautionary steps can be taken if time permits.

• Bring outdoor possessions inside the house or tie down items that could be swept away. Move furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
• Turn off the main power switch. Close the main gas valve only if evacuation appears necessary.

FLOOD WARNINGS AND SAFETY

During major storm events, flood warnings will be broadcast by radio, TV, weather radio, and by police and fire vehicles equipped with public address systems. The flood warning system is intended to provide advance warning of a flood hazard whenever feasible. Proper planning and actions can help you.

• Know the flood warning procedures. Plan your escape routes to high ground.
• Assemble evacuation supplies in an easy-to-carry duffle bag or backpack. Include water and food, first aid kit, prescription medications, change of clothing, battery powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of batteries.
• During times of heavy rainfall, stay tuned to radio or TV for possible flood warnings. Keep your car's gas tank full.
• Be especially cautious at night. Evacuate the flood hazard areas in times of impending flood or when advised by the police or fire department.
• For updated flood information during threatening storms you may call the City of Watsonville Emergency Operations at 728-6179. Diall 911 for emergencies only.
• If your car stalls in high water, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.
• Keep children away from flood waters, ditches, culverts and storm drains.

DRAINAGE SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

The City of Watsonville, Public Works Department maintains local storm drains and pump stations. Contact Customer Service Division (768-3133). In addition, the County of Santa Cruz primarily maintains the Pajaro River, creeks, and other open channels (477-3999).