Enter any Washington address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Washington experiences a mixed flood risk, with inland flooding and flash floods being the most frequent events over the last 30 years, accounting for 471 and 201 occurrences respectively. Coastal flooding and storm surge events are less common but also contribute to the state's flood hazards.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the recurring impact of severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides across the state. These declarations indicate widespread flood impacts, affecting various regions.
National Flood Insurance Program data shows that properties in FEMA Zone A have the highest number of claims, with over $217 million paid out. While Zone V properties have the highest average claim payout, suggesting significant damage when flooding occurs in these areas, a substantial number of claims also originate from zones with less defined flood risk categories, such as Zone X and unknown zones. This suggests that flood insurance may be beneficial for a broad range of property owners throughout Washington.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Washington has received 1,034 federal disaster declarations, including 347 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington is approximately $803 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. Washington residents can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or private insurers.
Visit FloodSmart.gov to find an agent and get a quote.
See the most flood-prone counties in Washington →
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