Monroe County Proclaims March 9-15 as Flood Awareness Week

Mayor Michelle Lincoln, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, and Growth Management Director Emily Schemper formally proclaimed March 9 through 15 as Monroe County Flood Awareness Week, joining a statewide observance recognized by the Florida Floodplain Managers Association.

The proclamation, made March 9, calls on county residents to examine their flood risk exposure, understand their flood insurance options, and take concrete steps to protect their homes and families. The Florida Floodplain Managers Association recognizes the week across the state with the same goal: building awareness before flood events occur rather than after.

The county's message is direct. "Flooding can impact homes and buildings across the county," according to county materials. "Understanding flood hazards and taking steps to prepare can significantly reduce damage and improve community resilience."

For a place like Monroe County, that message carries particular weight. The Florida Keys sit at sea level along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, making the county one of the most flood-exposed jurisdictions in the state. Storm surge, king tides, and seasonal rainfall routinely test the resilience of communities from Key Largo to Key West.

The county is directing residents to three resources for guidance during Flood Awareness Week. The county's own flood information page at monroecounty-fl.gov/flood serves as a local starting point. FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program information is available at fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program for residents evaluating or purchasing flood coverage. The Florida Division of Emergency Management's preparedness hub at floridadisaster.org/planprepare offers broader planning guidance.

Growth Management Director Schemper's inclusion in the proclamation reflects the county's administrative stake in flood planning. The Growth Management division oversees land use, building standards, and development regulations that directly shape how vulnerable new and existing structures are to flood damage.

Flood Awareness Week runs through Saturday, March 15.