Norfolk, VA Flood Zone Map
FEMA flood zone data for Norfolk. The map below shows high-risk areas (FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas) over local waterways and streets -- computed from the official FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer.
- High risk
- Moderate
- Lower risk
- Not mapped
Flood Zone Breakdown for Norfolk
About 19% of the mapped area in Norfolk falls within a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area (high-risk or moderate-risk flood zone). The breakdown by zone:
- AE 12% Zone AE
- VE 7% Zone VE
- X 43% Zone X
- OPEN WATER 38% Zone OPEN WATER
Where Flooding Comes From in Norfolk
Tidal and coastal flooding (Elizabeth River, Hampton Roads, Chesapeake Bay).
- Crab Crk
- Branch Wayne Crk
- Wayne Crk
- Mason Crk
- Ohio Crk
Flood Zone Details for Norfolk
| Zone | Risk level | Area | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| AE | High-risk riverine or coastal flood zone with a computed base flood elevation (BFE). About a 1-in-100 chance of flooding each year. | 12% | Flood insurance is typically required for federally backed mortgages. |
| VE | Coastal high-hazard zone with wave action. This is the highest-risk designation -- expect storm surge plus breaking waves. | 7% | Flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages and is especially important here. |
| X | Lower-risk zone outside the 1% annual chance flood boundary. Flooding is still possible but less likely than in high-risk zones. | 43% | Flood insurance is not required but may still be a smart choice -- nearly one-third of flood claims (29% over 2014-2024) come from lower-risk areas. |
| OPEN WATER | Flood zone as mapped by FEMA. | 38% | Consult your lender and local floodplain office. |
Learn More About the Zones in Norfolk
Check YOUR Exact Address in Norfolk
The map above shows the broad flood zone picture for Norfolk. Your specific property may be in a different zone -- the only way to know for certain is to check your exact address.