Enter any Mississippi address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Mississippi's flood risk is characterized by a high frequency of flash flood events, which have accounted for the majority of flood-related incidents over the past 30 years. This is further compounded by tropical storms and hurricanes, indicating a mixed risk profile influenced by both inland and coastal weather systems.
Recent federal disaster declarations for severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding highlight ongoing risks. While the data does not specify distinct inland or coastal regions, the presence of hurricanes and tropical storms suggests coastal vulnerability, while the high number of flash floods points to widespread inland concerns.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) data indicates that Zone A, typically representing areas with a 1% annual chance of flooding, has the highest number of claims. However, areas designated as X, X_UNSHADED, and X_SHADED, which are generally considered to have a lower flood risk, also show a significant number of claims with high average payouts, suggesting that flood damage can occur unexpectedly across various zones.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Mississippi has received 2,129 federal disaster declarations, including 125 flood and coastal storm declarations and 421 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi is approximately $538 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. Mississippi 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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