Enter any Indiana address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Indiana's flood risk is primarily characterized by frequent flooding and flash flooding events. Over the last 30 years, NOAA data indicates 3810 flood events and 2150 flash flood events. These events have resulted in 47 deaths from flooding and 32 deaths from flash flooding. Lakeshore and coastal flooding are less frequent, with 14 and 2 recorded events respectively.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the recurring impact of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding across the state. These declarations, all related to flooding, underscore the persistent threat of inundation. While the data does not specify particular rivers or coastal areas, the frequency of these declarations suggests widespread vulnerability to flood-related damage.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data reveals that Zone A, typically representing areas of moderate to major flood hazard, accounts for the largest number of claims (10740) and the highest total payout ($189 million). However, a significant number of claims also occur in zones designated as "Unknown" (2178 claims) and "X" (1524 claims), suggesting that flood events can impact areas not immediately perceived as high-risk. Residents in Zone A may face the most frequent and costly claims, but those in less defined or lower-risk zones should also be aware of potential flood exposures.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Indiana has received 1,581 federal disaster declarations, including 233 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Indiana 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 Indiana 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 Indiana is approximately $861 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. Indiana 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 Indiana →
Select a county to view local flood zone data and disaster history:
Select a city to check flood zone information: