Enter any Idaho address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Idaho experiences a mixed flood risk, with flood events occurring more frequently than flash floods over the last 30 years. During this period, NOAA data recorded 539 flood events resulting in one death, and 321 flash flood events causing two deaths.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the impact of severe storms and associated flooding, landslides, and mudslides, with multiple declarations in April 2024. Additional declarations in January 2021 noted straight-line winds, indicative of severe storm activity that can contribute to flood conditions.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) data shows that Zone A areas have the highest number of claims, totaling 503 and amounting to $5 million in payouts. Zone X areas also see significant claims, with 226 claims and $2 million paid. While Zone X_UNSHADED has a lower average claim cost, the distribution of claims across various zones, including those with no reported flood risk like X_SHADED and D, suggests that flood insurance may be beneficial for residents in a range of locations.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Idaho has received 370 federal disaster declarations, including 93 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Idaho 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 Idaho 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 Idaho is approximately $713 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. Idaho 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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