Enter any Vermont address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Vermont experiences a mixed flood risk, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the last 30 years, followed closely by general floods. This period saw 478 flash flood events resulting in 8 fatalities, and 400 flood events with 3 fatalities. Lakeshore floods occurred 20 times, and three tropical storm events were also recorded.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the impact of severe storms and flooding in 2024, including multiple declarations related to Tropical Depression Debby. While the data does not specify geographic regions within Vermont, the frequency of flash floods and general floods suggests inland riverine and overland flow are significant concerns.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) data indicates that Zone A, typically representing areas with higher flood risk, has the highest number of claims at 2,222, with over $79 million paid. However, Zone X, which generally denotes areas with moderate to minimal flood risk, has also seen substantial claims totaling $9 million across 371 incidents. This suggests that flood events can impact areas beyond the most commonly designated high-risk zones, making flood insurance a consideration for a broader range of residents.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Vermont has received 405 federal disaster declarations, including 128 flood and coastal storm declarations and 14 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont is approximately $955 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. Vermont 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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