Release: Commissioner’s Memorandum 2026-3A: Updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps
April 8, 2026 at 8:05 pm
STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA
NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR KA LUNA HOʻOKELE
SCOTT K. SAIKI
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER
To: All Insurance Producers, Administrators and Surplus Lines Brokers
From: Scott K. Saiki, Insurance Commissioner
Subject: Commissioner’s Memorandum 2026-3A Updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps
Attachment: FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps Discounts Flyer
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has recently updated its Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), resulting in changes to the flood risk designation of over 3,500 parcels across Oʻahu that will become effective June 10, 2026. These updates are crucial for understanding flood risk island-wide and preparing property owners accordingly. Your role in guiding clients through these changes is vital.
Due to these map revisions, some parcels may now be designated as high-risk flood zones, known as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), for the first time. Properties newly mapped into a SFHA require specific building standards (ROH Chapter 21A – Flood Hazard Areas) and may be subject to mandatory flood insurance requirements.
We request your assistance in proactively informing your clients about the FIRM updates, potential impacts on insurance requirements, and new building standards. Given the potential cost burdens, the city has developed the attached flyer providing a list of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy discounts property owners may be eligible for. This flyer has been shared with real estate professionals and the general public, so your clients may be reaching out to learn more. If your firm does not offer private or NFIP-backed flood insurance or discounts, please direct inquirers to FEMA’s webpage which hosts a list of NFIP-backed providers.
Resources and detailed information about the FIRM updates are available at resilientoahu.org/GetFloodReady. Additionally, FEMA has prepared a special brochure with resources and information, specifically for insurance agents.
Thank you for helping our community prepare for and respond to flood risk.