Enter any South Dakota address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
South Dakota experiences a mixed flood risk, with floods and flash floods being the most frequent event types over the last 30 years. During this period, NOAA recorded 2,537 flood events resulting in 6 deaths, and 831 flash flood events causing 4 deaths. Lakeshore flooding was a less common occurrence, with only 13 recorded events.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the ongoing threat of severe storms and flooding across the state. Multiple declarations in June and July of 2024, and one in June 2025, specifically cite severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding as the causes. These events underscore the dynamic nature of flood risk in South Dakota, impacting various regions.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data suggests that properties in Zone A and Zone X have the highest number of claims, indicating significant flood risk in these areas. While Zone A claims have resulted in substantial total payouts, Zone X claims have seen a higher average payout per claim. Notably, a significant number of claims also fall into the "unknown" category, suggesting that flood risk may be underestimated or not fully understood in certain areas, making flood insurance a consideration for a broad range of property owners.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
South Dakota has received 1,469 federal disaster declarations, including 516 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across South 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 South 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 South Dakota is approximately $725 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. South Dakota 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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