Enter any New York address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
New York faces a mixed flood risk, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the past 30 years, followed by general floods and coastal floods.
The state's flood events include coastal flooding and storm surge, particularly impacting coastal areas. Inland, flash floods and general floods are prevalent. Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the impact of severe storms and tropical systems, such as Remnants of Tropical Storm Debby in August 2024, underscoring the dynamic nature of flood threats across New York.
National Flood Insurance Program data indicates that Zone A areas have the highest number of claims and the largest total payout, suggesting a significant flood risk for properties in these zones. However, Zone X areas also experience substantial claims, with average payouts comparable to Zone V, indicating that flood risk is not confined to the highest-risk zones and that insurance may be advisable for a broader range of properties.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
New York has received 1,537 federal disaster declarations, including 223 flood and coastal storm declarations and 99 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across New York 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 New York 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 New York is approximately $1,129 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. New York 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 New York →
Select a county to view local flood zone data and disaster history:
Select a city to check flood zone information: