As hurricane season approaches, the North Carolina Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network (FIMAN) is becoming an essential tool for residents and officials in Lenoir County. Managed by North Carolina Emergency Management, FIMAN provides real-time rain, stream, weather, and flooding risk information to help communities prepare for and respond to flood events.

FIMAN's primary function is to monitor water levels and provide alerts based on specific conditions. Users can customize alerts for different flood stages—Monitor, Minor, Moderate, and Major—ensuring timely notifications when water levels rise above or fall below these thresholds. The tool also supports forecast data, allowing users to receive alerts if a gauge is projected to reach certain water levels.

Residents can create custom alerts to monitor other specific water levels. By accessing the “Alert Settings” window on the FIMAN website, users can click “New Alert,” name the alert, and set the desired stage or elevation to trigger a notification. These customizable alerts are vital for individuals living in flood-prone areas, providing them with the information needed to take precautionary measures.

In addition to individual users, emergency management teams also benefit from FIMAN. The tool provides comprehensive data that supports their efforts in issuing emergency messages and coordinating response actions.

With hurricane season underway, residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with FIMAN and set up alerts tailored to their specific needs. The platform's user-friendly interface and customizable alert system make it accessible to all, offering a proactive approach to flood risk management.

For more information about FIMAN and to customize alerts, visit fiman.nc.gov.

By utilizing FIMAN, Lenoir County residents can stay informed and prepared, ultimately enhancing the safety and resilience of the community in the face of potential flooding events.