Enter any North Carolina address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
North Carolina experiences a mixed flood risk profile, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the last 30 years, followed by general floods and tropical storm events.
The state's geography, encompassing a coastline and inland areas, contributes to its varied flood threats. Coastal areas are susceptible to coastal flooding and storm surge/tide events, while inland regions face risks from flash floods and riverine flooding. Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the impact of tropical systems, with multiple declarations for Tropical Depression Chantal in July 2025.
National Flood Insurance Program data indicates that Zone A areas have the highest number of claims and the largest total payouts, suggesting a significant flood risk in these regions. However, Zone X areas, including X_UNSHADED and X_SHADED, also show a substantial number of claims with higher average payouts than Zone A, indicating that flood damage can occur in areas not typically considered high-risk. This suggests that flood insurance may be advisable for residents in various zones, not just those designated as high-risk.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
North Carolina has received 2,431 federal disaster declarations, including 63 flood and coastal storm declarations and 556 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina is approximately $754 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. North Carolina 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 North Carolina →
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