Enter any Virginia address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Virginia experiences a mixed flood risk profile, with flash floods being the most frequent event type over the last 30 years, followed closely by general flooding. While flash floods have resulted in the highest number of fatalities, coastal flooding and tropical storms also contribute to the state's flood hazard.
The state's geography presents distinct flood risks. Coastal areas are susceptible to coastal floods and storm surge, as indicated by the presence of coastal flood events and storm surge/tide events. Inland areas face risks from flash floods and general flooding, often exacerbated by severe weather. Recent federal disaster declarations for severe winter storms and flooding highlight the ongoing threat across various regions of the state.
National Flood Insurance Program data suggests that properties in FEMA Zone A have the highest number of claims and the largest total payouts, indicating a significant flood risk in these areas. However, properties in Zone X and X_Unshaded also experience a notable number of claims, with average payouts exceeding $10,000, suggesting that flood risk is not confined to the most commonly recognized high-risk zones. This distribution implies that residents in various flood zones may benefit from 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.
Virginia has received 2,756 federal disaster declarations, including 281 flood and coastal storm declarations and 424 hurricane declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia is approximately $729 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. Virginia 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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