Flood Risk in the United States: Miami Tops List of Most Vulnerable Cities

Floods pose a severe threat to communities across the United States, causing extensive property damage and potential risks to human life. Recognizing the importance of identifying flood-prone cities, Insurify developed a flood risk score, taking into account FEMA’s risk scores for coastal and river flooding, population data, average home insurance premiums, and average home values.

Miami, Florida, tops the list of cities with the highest flood risk score in the United States. Other Florida and Texas cities dominate the list, with seven out of the top ten cities being located in these states. Pasadena, Texas, has the highest river flooding risk score in the entire country, while Hollywood, Florida, experienced significant damage during Hurricane Irma in 2017 and continues to face historic flooding.

Cities like Brooklyn, New York, and Jersey City, New Jersey, face their own flood-related challenges, with coastal flooding and flash floods posing significant risks.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), even just an inch of water in a home can lead to property damage worth $25,000. While coastal flooding is well-known, river flooding presents an even greater danger due to sudden onset and rapid water level rises. In this regard, Louisiana and Florida face the highest flood risk at the state level. However, flood vulnerability varies across the country, with certain areas in New York and New Jersey also being at risk.

In addition to the immediate property damage caused by floods, high flood risk can have long-term effects on the value of homes. Properties located in flood-prone areas tend to appreciate at a slower rate compared to those not at risk.

As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the threat of flooding looms large for many cities in the United States. It is crucial for homeowners in flood-prone areas to understand the risks, invest in appropriate insurance coverage, and take necessary measures to protect their properties. By being proactive and prepared, individuals can mitigate the financial and emotional toll that flooding can inflict on their homes and communities.