Flooding in Bend: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Bend, OR, is often considered a safe mountain town tucked into the high desert of Central Oregon. While it doesn’t face the coastal storm surge or Willamette Valley flooding seen elsewhere in the state, Bend is not immune to flood hazards. Seasonal snowmelt from the Cascades, Deschutes River overflow, flash flooding from summer thunderstorms, and rapid urban development all contribute to rising flood risks.

What many homeowners and renters in Bend don’t realize is that standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Even one inch of water can cause more than $25,000 in losses according to FEMA. As Bend continues expanding near the Deschutes River and Tumalo Creek, private flood insurance in Bend, OR, has become a vital safeguard for protecting homes and businesses.

Flood Zones in Bend

Flood hazard in Bend varies greatly by neighborhood. FEMA has mapped portions of Bend into designated flood zones, and properties with a federally backed mortgage in high-risk zones must carry flood insurance.

• Zone AE: Along the Deschutes River and Tumalo Creek. 1% annual flood chance, Base Flood Elevations determined.
• Zone A: Found around smaller creeks where detailed FEMA studies are pending. High risk but no established elevations.
• Zone X: Lower-risk areas, but FEMA states 40% of flood claims occur outside high-risk zones.