Flooding in Phoenix WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Phoenix might be known for its sunshine and desert heat, but flash flooding is a serious and growing concern across the Valley. The city’s hard, dry soil doesn’t absorb water easily, which means even a short downpour can lead to dangerous and damaging floods. Monsoon storms, sudden cloudbursts, and runoff from surrounding mountains all contribute to the city’s unique flood risks.
Studies show that over 62,000 homes in Phoenix are at the risk of flooding today, accounting for over half the overall flood risk in Arizona. However, what many homeowners in Arizona don’t realize is that standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage and protecting your home with private flood insurance in Phoenix, AZ is essential.

Flood Zones in Phoenix

Phoenix includes a mix of FEMA-designated flood zones, from low-risk areas to higher-risk zones along washes and drainage channels. Properties near Salt River channels, dry washes (arroyos), and canals may fall within Zone AE or Zone AO, where flood insurance is often required for federally backed mortgages.
That said, homes in Zone X (lower-risk areas) can still flood—especially during strong monsoon storms. In fact, data from FEMA suggests that 40% of flood insurance claims come from properties outside of mapped high-risk zones.