Enter any Colorado address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Colorado experiences a mixed flood risk, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the last 30 years, accounting for 1550 occurrences and 29 associated deaths. General flood events, while less frequent at 471, have resulted in 18 fatalities.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the ongoing threat, with multiple declarations for "Severe Storms, Flooding, and Tornadoes" in June 2023 underscoring the state's vulnerability to widespread flood impacts. These events can affect various regions within the state, demonstrating that flood risk is not confined to specific geographic features.
National Flood Insurance Program data indicates that Zone A areas have the highest number of claims (2221) and the largest total payout ($48 million), suggesting a significant concentration of flood risk in these designated zones. However, Zone X areas also show a substantial number of claims (1794) with considerable payouts, indicating that flood events and associated insurance claims can occur in areas not typically considered high-risk, making flood insurance a consideration for a broad range of residents.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Colorado has received 667 federal disaster declarations, including 224 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Colorado 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 Colorado 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 Colorado is approximately $951 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. Colorado 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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