2023 Flood Map Update Information

FEMA is in the process of updating the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for the Town of Winchester and surrounding communities.  Preliminary FIRMs have been published that are subject to an appeal period, ending on October 30, 2023.  

The revised maps were developed using more detailed topographic information from 2020 (the current maps were issued in 2010); the remapping efforts did not include new hydraulic or hydrologic analysis in Winchester, and no changes were made to the Base Flood Elevations. Based on the new topographic data, it is possible for properties that were outside the floodplain to now be located in the floodplain.   It is also possible for properties to be removed from the floodplain.

  • The Preliminary FIRM and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) can be viewed at the FEMA website:  https://msc.fema.gov/portal/advanceSearch.  Use the search feature to search for the State of Massachusetts, County of Middlesex, Town of Winchester and select “Preliminary Products.”
  • FEMA has also created a website that shows the proposed changes to the maps.  You may enter your address to see if there are any changes proposed to your property’s flood zone or flood type:  https://fema.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=e7a7dc3ebd7f4ad39bb8e485bb64ce44
  • You may call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX), toll free, at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or e-mail the FMIX staff at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
  • You may view the maps at the Engineering Department during the hours listed above. The Department can also assist you in interpreting the maps, at no cost. Or contact engineering@winchester.us and provide your address and contact information.

During the 90-day appeal period, you may comment to FEMA regarding the proposed flood hazard determinations and make an appeal. However, only appeals based on scientific information will be considered. Examples of scientific information include, but are not limited to, hydrologic or hydraulic studies.  You may submit comments, identified by Docket No. FEMA-B-2357, to:

Rick Sacbibit, Chief, Engineering Services Branch
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, FEMA, 
400 C Street SW, Washington DC, 20472, or e-mail Patrick.sacbibit@fema.dhs.gov

At the end of the 90-day appeal period, and upon the resolution of any appeals and comments, FEMA will issue a Letter of Final Determination, which will finalize the flood hazard information presented on the revised FIRM and FIS report, and will establish an effective date, which is typically within six months of the maps being finalized.