NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — FEMA released new flood maps for the City of New Orleans Wednesday. Taking into account the upgraded levee system, the new maps removed thousands of properties from Special Flood Hazard Areas, which require flood insurance.

To see the final flood map, click here.

The final Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map indicates areas that have been changed from a Special Flood Hazard Area, “A zones,” to a non-hazard areas, “X zones.” 

However, while many residents will see a lower premium, some will pay more and experts still encourage all homeowners to carry flood insurance.

“The release of the finalized Flood Insurance Rate Maps for New Orleans ensures that required flood elevations are correctly mapped for our residents for the first time in years,” Mayor Mitch Landrieu said.

“The City fought hard to guarantee the accuracy of these Flood Maps so that the actual risk was appropriately calculated. As a result of significant improvements in drainage and flood protection, flood insurance will be more affordable for many area residents. This success would not be possible without strong partnerships with FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, our congressional delegation and the local community.”

The New Orleans City Council now has six months to adopt the new maps. The mayor’s office expects the city to vote on the final flood maps in June or July.

As a homeowner, if your flood zone changes, you can expect your new rate to go into effect when your policy renews.