Enter any Arkansas address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Arkansas experiences a mixed flood risk profile, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the last 30 years, accounting for 3722 occurrences and 68 fatalities. General floods followed with 1895 events and 24 deaths. Tropical storm and depression events also contribute to the state's flood risk, though with fewer recorded fatalities.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the ongoing threat of severe storms and flooding in Arkansas. These declarations, particularly those in April 2025, underscore the recurring nature of flood events impacting communities across the state. While the data does not specify particular rivers or coastal areas, the frequency of these declarations indicates widespread vulnerability.
National Flood Insurance Program data suggests that properties in FEMA Zone A have experienced the highest number of claims, totaling 5644 and resulting in $120 million in payouts. However, properties in Zone X, particularly those unshaded, have seen higher average claim amounts, indicating that flood damage can occur in areas not typically considered high-risk. This suggests that residents in various flood zones may benefit from flood insurance.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Arkansas has received 1,824 federal disaster declarations, including 312 flood and coastal storm declarations and 18 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Arkansas using the following classifications:
AE High Risk — 1% annual chance of flooding (100-year floodplain). Insurance required for federal mortgages.
VE Very High Risk — Coastal flooding with wave action. Strictest building codes.
X (Shaded) Moderate Risk — 500-year floodplain. Insurance recommended.
X Low Risk — Outside major floodplains. Insurance optional but advisable — from 2014 to 2024, nearly one-third of NFIP claims came from outside high-risk zones.
Properties in Arkansas FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (zones A and V) with federally backed mortgages are required to carry flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
The average NFIP premium in Arkansas is approximately $743 per year. Rates vary significantly based on flood zone, building elevation, and coverage amount.
Even outside high-risk zones, flood insurance is recommended. From 2014 to 2024, nearly one-third of NFIP claims came from properties outside the high-risk Special Flood Hazard Area. Arkansas residents can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or private insurers.
Visit FloodSmart.gov to find an agent and get a quote.
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