Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is a measurement by FEMA that defines the elevation of a 1% chance flood event each year. This means that there is a 1% chance that flooding will reach this elevation in any given year. Anything under this elevation is at risk of flooding during a high rainstorm event. GIS professionals can use FEMA's flood maps to identify hazardous flood areas and recommend solutions for mitigating the effects of flooding. These solutions may include installing drainage structures or elevating homes and businesses. By understanding BFE and using GIS, you can help to protect yourself from the rising rates of floods that are increasing in strength every year.