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Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United
States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and
multiple states.However, all floods are not alike.
Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in
just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries
rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path.
Overland flooding occurs outside a defined
river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks,
producing effects similar to flash floods.
Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream
from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appear harmless in
dry weather can flood.
Every state is at risk from this hazard.
What is the risk of flooding where I live?
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 Did you know?
- Floods and flash floods happen in all 50 states.
- Everyone lives in a flood zone. (For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions about Flood Zones)
- Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.
- If you live in a low to moderate risk area and are eligible for the Preferred Risk Policy, your flood insurance premium
may be as low as $112 a year, including coverage for your property's contents.
- It takes 30 days after purchase for a policy to take effect, so it's important to buy insurance before the floodwaters
start to rise.
- New land development can increase flood risk, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths.
- If you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or high risk area, your mortgage lender requires you to have flood
insurance. (To find out if you are in an SFHA, visit What's Your Flood Risk?)
- Just an inch of water can cause costly damage to your property.
- Flash floods often bring walls of water 10 to 20 feet high.
- A car can easily be carried away by just two feet of floodwater.
- Hurricanes, winter storms and snow melt are common (but often overlooked) causes of flooding.
- Federal disaster assistance is usually a loan that must be paid back with interest. For a $50,000 loan at 4% interest,
your monthly payment would be around $240 a month ($2,880
a year) for 30 years. Compare that to a $100,000 flood insurance premium, which is about $500 a year ($33 a month).
You are eligible to purchase flood insurance as long as your community participates in the National Flood Insurance
Program. Check the Community Status Book to see if your community is already an NFIP partner.
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