Flood Hazards
The National Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is prominently displayed in the lobby of the Municipal Building for viewing by any interested party. Questions can be directed to the Borough Manager. You may call 412-781-0569 for additional information.
Protect Yourself From Flood Hazards
- Ask the real estate agent if the property is in a floodplain, if it has ever been flooded, and if it subject to any other hazards, such as sewer backup for subsidence.
- Ask the seller and the neighbors if the property is in a floodplain, how long they have lived there, if the property has ever been flooded, and if it is subject to any other hazards.
- Ask the local building, zoning, or engineering department if the property is in a floodplain, if it has ever been flooded, what is the flood depth, velocity, and warning time, if it is subject to any other hazards, and what building or zoning regulations are in effect.
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The force of moving water or waves can destroy a building.
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Slow moving flood waters can knock people off their feet or float a car.
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Even standing water can float a building, collapse basement walls, or buckle a concrete floor.
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Water soaked contents, such as carpeting, clothing, upholstered furniture, and mattresses may have to be thrown away after a flood.
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Some items, such as photographs and heirlooms, may never to restored to their original condition.
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Floodwaters are not clean: floods may carry mud, farm chemicals, road oil, and other noxious substances that cause health hazards.
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The impact of a flood, cleaning up, making repairs, and the personal losses can cause great stress to you, your family, and your finances.
One of the best protection measures for a building with a flood problem is National Flood Insurance, which is purchased through any property insurance agent. If the building is located in a floodplain, flood insurance will be required by most mortgage lenders.
Etna Borough regulates construction and development in the floodplain to ensure that buildings will be protected from flood damage. Filling and similar projects are prohibited in certain areas. Another rule requires houses substantially damaged by fire, flood, or any other cause, to be elevated above the flood level when they are repaired. Etna's regulations can be found in our Floodplain Management Ordinance.
