Phoenix Area Flooding and Flood Insurance Information

Flooding in Mesa, 

Sept. 9, 2014.(Photo: The Republic)

This week the Phoenix metro area received record-breaking rainfall and many areas experienced severe flooding. Initial news reports were calling it the "hundred year flood." Later reports on local news stations were calling it the "500 year flood" and one even called it a possible "1,000 year flood." As some areas still remain under water and some folks are dealing with the aftermath of extensive flooding, many people are discovering that their homeowner's insurance does not cover this type of water damage.

With this in mind, it is important that all homeowners review their insurance coverage, take the time to check out FEMA flood maps,  and give serious consideration to getting flood insurance.  Flood maps can change, so even if you've checked area maps previously, it's a good idea to review your area flood map again. (See links below.)

According to a recent ArizonaCentral article, "Flood insurance has a 30-day delay before coverage starts. But there's no waiting period for sewer and drain backup coverage, which can be added as an endorsement to standard policies.

Because public infrastructure such as sewer systems often takes a beating during heavy storms, this can be a wise purchase and typically doesn't cost much."

Below are links to FEMA Flood map information and to the Maricopa County Flood Control District.  Take a few minutes to check them out.

The FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Flood Map Service Center (MSC) is the official public source for flood hazard information produced in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Use the MSC to find your official flood map, access a range of other flood hazard products, and take advantage of tools for better understanding flood risk.


For the most current information for your area, go to the FEMA Map Service Center (MSC) website:  https://msc.fema.gov/portal 

The Maricopa County Flood Control District:  Click HERE