Even in areas that are mapped, like the Camp Mystic site in Kerr County, Texas, that was hit by a deadly flash flood on July 4, 2025, the maps may underestimate their risk because of a reliance on historic data and outdated risk assessments.

The FEMA Flood Map Service Center offers an interactive map that allows anyone in the U.S. to enter their address and see if they live in a designated flood zone. The tool can also be used to explore other areas, making it helpful for those planning a move, managing a rental property or checking on family or friends in another region.

There are questions over why oversight was eased at Mystic Camp as it expanded in a hazardous floodplain, the AP reported.