Enter any Rhode Island address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Rhode Island's flood risk is characterized by a mix of events, with floods, flash floods, and coastal floods being the most frequent occurrences over the past 30 years. During this period, NOAA data indicates 175 flood events, 121 flash flood events, and 41 coastal flood events, alongside 27 tropical storm events and 2 storm surge/tide events.
Recent federal disaster declarations for severe storms and flooding in January 2024 and December 2023 highlight ongoing risks. While specific riverine or geographic details are not provided, the prevalence of coastal flood events and tropical storms suggests a significant vulnerability along the state's coastline.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data indicates that Zone A, often associated with coastal and riverine flood hazards, has the highest number of claims at 3,425, with over $72 million paid. Zone V, typically representing high-velocity coastal flood zones, also shows substantial claims with an average payout of $28,061. While Zones X (unshaded and shaded) and X_UNSHADED have fewer claims, they still represent a notable portion of NFIP activity, suggesting that flood insurance may be advisable even for properties outside of the most commonly designated high-risk areas.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Rhode Island has received 123 federal disaster declarations and 22 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island is approximately $1,436 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. Rhode Island 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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