What designation is given to the 100-year floodplain on NFIP maps?

The designation given to the 100-year floodplain on NFIP maps is "Special Flood Hazard Area" (SFHA). This term specifically refers to those areas that are at a high risk of flooding, defined as zones that have a 1% annual chance of experiencing flooding, which is typically represented as the area that could be inundated during a major flooding event.

The designation as a Special Flood Hazard Area serves important purposes in floodplain management and mitigation strategies. It indicates regions where flood insurance is required for properties with federally backed mortgages and helps to raise awareness about the flood risk in these zones. This distinction aids local governments in planning and enforcing land use and development regulations to minimize flood damage.

Understanding the definition of SFHA is crucial for communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as it directly impacts insurance requirements, zoning laws, and floodplain management policies implemented to protect lives and property from flood risks.