BLOOMINGTON—The National Weather Service has issued an Area Flood Watch for Monroe County. The City of Bloomington encourages residents—especially those in flood-prone areas—to proactively protect themselves, their homes, and their loved ones.
- Risk Plan – Where is water likely to collect on the roadways you most often travel? What is the fastest way to get to higher ground? Knowing the answers to these questions ahead of time can save your life.
- Prepare Your Home—If you have access to sandbags or other materials, use them to protect your home from flood waters if you have sufficient time.
- Communication Plan – Communicating with your family and friends during a disaster is essential. Whether it is having a specific person identified to contact for status updates or a safe location to meet up with family members, having a plan in place will give you peace of mind if disaster does strike.
- Emergency Kit – Stock at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food, water, and essential medications. Also include flashlights, batteries, blankets, first aid supplies, rubber boots/gloves, and a NOAA Weather Radio or battery-powered radio.
If your property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, you must obtain a local floodplain development permit before beginning flood-related repairs or reconstruction. These permits are required under the City of Bloomington Floodplain Ordinance (Unified Development Ordinance 20.04.040) and are issued by:
City of Bloomington Planning and Transportation Department, 401 N. Morton Street, Suite 130, Bloomington, IN 47404
Failure to obtain the required permit may result in fines of up to $2,500 per day. Some properties may also need a license from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) before work can begin.
For questions or to apply for a floodplain development permit, contact Rachael Johnson at 812-349-3588 or email rachael.johnson@bloomington.in.gov.
