A Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is an area that has a 1% or greater chance of flooding in any given year. This means that there is a 1 in 4 chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage. SFHAs are identified on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and are labeled with the letters A or V.
The following are the different types of SFHAs:
Zone A: This is the most common type of SFHA and includes areas that are subject to flooding from the base flood, which is the flood that has a 1% chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.Zone AE: This zone is similar to Zone A, but it also includes areas that are subject to erosion from waves.Zone AH: This zone is similar to Zone A, but it also includes areas that are subject to flooding from high groundwater levels.Zone AO: This zone is similar to Zone A, but it is located outside the limits of the base flood and is protected by levees or other flood control structures.Zone V: This zone includes areas that are subject to flooding from a 100-year flood that is caused by a river overflow.Zone VE: This zone is similar to Zone V, but it also includes areas that are subject to erosion from waves. Zone X: Area of Minimal Chance of Flood Hazard
Homeowners and businesses in SFHAs are required to purchase flood insurance if they have a federally backed mortgage. Flood insurance can help to protect your property from the financial losses that can occur from flooding.
You can find out if your property is located in an SFHA by visiting the FEMA Flood Map Service Center website. You can also contact your local floodplain administrator.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about SFHAs:
The risk of flooding in an SFHA can vary depending on the specific location.Flooding can also be caused by other factors, such as hurricanes, tropical storms, and dam failures.There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of flooding, such as elevating your home, flood proofing your property, and planting trees.
If you are considering buying a property in an SFHA, it is important to understand the risks involved and to take steps to protect yourself.
*****Find out by address to know your Flood Zones Areas: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home