Enter any Ohio address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Ohio experiences a mixed flood risk, with floods and flash floods being the most frequent event types over the last 30 years, accounting for a significant number of occurrences and fatalities. While less common, lakeshore floods also occur.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight severe storms, flooding, and landslides as recurring issues. These events have impacted various areas within the state, underscoring the widespread nature of flood risk.
National Flood Insurance Program data indicates that Zone A areas have the highest number of claims and the largest total payouts, suggesting a significant concentration of flood risk in these locations. However, Zone X areas also show substantial claim activity and high average payouts, indicating that flood damage can occur in areas not typically considered high-risk. Residents in all flood zones should consider flood insurance to protect against potential losses.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Ohio has received 1,292 federal disaster declarations, including 159 flood and coastal storm declarations and 2 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio is approximately $870 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. Ohio 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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