Enter any Montana address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Montana experiences a mixed flood risk, with floods and flash floods being the most frequent event types over the last 30 years. NOAA data indicates 765 flood events and 473 flash flood events during this period, resulting in 12 fatalities. One storm surge/tide event was also recorded.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the ongoing threat of severe storms and flooding across the state. Declarations in 2025 and 2024 specifically mention flooding, often in conjunction with severe storms, straight-line winds, or winter storms. These events underscore the dynamic nature of flood risk in Montana.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data suggests that properties in FEMA Zone A have incurred the highest total payouts, exceeding $10 million across 716 claims. However, properties in "Unknown" zones have also seen significant claims, totaling $1 million from 484 claims, indicating potential flood risk even where specific zone designations are unclear. Residents in Zone X and X_Unshaded areas have also filed claims, though with lower average payouts. Notably, Zone X_Shaded and Zone D have recorded zero payouts, despite having claims filed.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Montana has received 646 federal disaster declarations, including 146 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Montana 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 Montana 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 Montana is approximately $637 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. Montana 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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