Even before Hurricane Sandy, FEMA engineers were working on replacements for decades-old flood-insurance maps. In December, they released new maps that significantly changed the flood plains in New York and New Jersey. In January, Gov. Chris Christie adopted the new maps, and anyone repairing substantial damage to houses along the shore could face the the prospect of five-figure insurance premiums if they don’t elevate their houses. The shading here shows how much the new FEMA maps change minimum first floor elevations compared to the old maps.

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