What information do Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maps provide?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maps, specifically flood insurance rate maps (FIRMs), are primarily designed to illustrate potential flood risks and drainage concerns in various areas. These maps delineate flood zones, which indicate the likelihood of flooding in a given area, helping communities identify high-risk flood zones and prepare for possible disaster response.

By informing stakeholders—including local governments, businesses, and residents—about areas susceptible to flooding, FEMA maps play a critical role in urban planning, hazard mitigation, and insurance underwriting. The flood zone designations on these maps also guide development regulations, suggesting where construction may need to be limited or where additional precautions must be taken to protect structures from flood damage.

In contrast, the other options relate to broader aspects of community planning and environmental data that are not the primary focus of FEMA's mapping efforts. Population density, urban development regulations, and historical weather patterns do not directly pertain to the specific application of FEMA maps regarding flood risks.