Enter any Illinois address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Illinois experiences a mixed flood risk, with flash floods and general floods being the most frequent events over the last 30 years, resulting in numerous occurrences and fatalities. Lakeshore flooding also occurs, though less frequently.
Recent federal disaster declarations in July 2024 highlight severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding as significant threats across the state. While specific riverine flooding is not detailed, the prevalence of flash and general flood events suggests a broad vulnerability to various water-related hazards.
National Flood Insurance Program data indicates that Zone A, representing areas with a moderate to high risk of flooding, accounts for the largest number of claims and the highest total payouts. However, zones labeled "UNKNOWN" and "X" also show a substantial number of claims, with "X" zones having a higher average payout than "X_UNSHADED" and "X_SHADED" zones. This suggests that flood insurance may be beneficial even for properties not in the highest-risk designated zones, as unexpected claims and significant costs can occur.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Illinois has received 1,313 federal disaster declarations, including 325 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Illinois 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 Illinois 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 Illinois is approximately $1,048 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. Illinois residents can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or private insurers.
Visit FloodSmart.gov to find an agent and get a quote.
See the most flood-prone counties in Illinois →
Select a county to view local flood zone data and disaster history:
Select a city to check flood zone information: