Coming Floods Forcing South Dakotans to Prepare

by Matt Johnson
February 25, 2010

While the snow and ice have been piling up all winter, the up-coming spring could bring major flooding to South Dakota.

FEMA has issued new flood maps for the area, and many homes in Sioux Falls have been upgraded in risk for flooding.

 Last year, flood waters raged in South Dakota.This is what the James River looked like last spring.But this year, FEMA officials say it could be worse.

"If it melts quickly or we get spring rains on top of it, it could propose challenging issues regarding flooding in the area," said FEMA's Dave Kyner.

New area maps from FEMA have more residents in danger, upgraded from non-danger "x" zones, to potential risk "a" zones.

"I'm in the new flood proposed zone right now," said Shirley Nagel.

Citizens turned out to hear FEMA's suggestions to protect themselves from the floods, namely, buying flood insurance, which averages 500 dollars a year.

"Personally be prepared, have a plan in place," said Kyner.

Some are upset about their home's new risk upgrade, saying not only does it cost more money now, because they're forced to buy flood insurance, but it also affects the value of their home.Others have been upgraded to an "a" risk area, when they haven't had any flooding in their home in over 30 years.

"Regretfully, I can't answer when the floods are going to occur, how severe they're going to be, or where they're going to be located. People need to be aware what's going on," said Kyner.

While those who are at risk now have a decision to make regarding paying for flood insurance, they better decide fast.Flood insurance doesn't go into effect until 30 days after it's purchased.

Matt Johnson, KDLT News.

To see the flood map of your home click here.
www.fema.gov