Flooding in Atlanta WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Atlanta, Georgia, is a dynamic and fast-growing city—but its rapid development has brought increased flood risks. With miles of pavement, rooftops, and other impervious surfaces, rainwater has fewer places to go, often overwhelming storm drains and pooling in streets and low-lying neighborhoods. Atlanta’s hilly terrain adds to the problem, sending runoff rushing downhill into creeks, culverts, and homes. Many parts of the city—like Vine City, Peoplestown, and parts of Midtown—have experienced repeated flooding, especially during intense storms. In 2009, historic rainfall caused devastating floods that damaged thousands of homes across the metro area. Today, more than 14,000 properties in Atlanta are considered at risk of flooding, underscoring just how critical it is to be protected with private flood insurance in Atlanta, GA.

Flood Zones in Atlanta

Atlanta has several FEMA-defined flood zones, such as high-risk zones AE and VE. These properties are at higher risk of flooding and can be mandated to have flood insurance, particularly if they are financed with federally insured mortgages. Even Zone X, which is moderate-to-low risk, has experienced flood events. According to FEMA statistics, nearly 40% of flood insurance claims are from properties outside of high-risk zones.