Enter any North Dakota address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
North Dakota experiences a mixed flood risk, with both flood and flash flood events contributing to the hazard landscape over the last 30 years. NOAA data indicates 664 flood events resulting in 11 deaths, alongside 557 flash flood events causing 5 deaths.
While the provided data does not specify regional flood types within North Dakota, it does list recent federal disaster declarations primarily for severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes. These events can contribute to overland flooding and flash flooding conditions.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data suggests that properties in Zone A, which typically represent areas of moderate to major flood hazard, have the highest number of claims at 4582, with a total payout of $76 million. However, Zone X, generally considered areas of minimal to moderate flood hazard, has seen the second-highest number of claims (3156) but the highest total payout at $92 million, with an average claim significantly higher than Zone A. This indicates that flood events can impact areas outside of traditional high-risk zones, and residents in all zones should consider flood insurance.
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 Dakota has received 1,423 federal disaster declarations, including 727 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across North Dakota 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 Dakota 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 Dakota is approximately $552 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 Dakota 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 Dakota →
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