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Flooding in Chesapeake

Flooding can happen anytime, anywhere. Including an area not in a flood zone. The majority of homeowner's insurance policies do not include flood protection.
Floods
What is a Flood?
Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters. Most communities in the United States can experience some kind of flooding after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms, or winter snow thaws. Floods can be slow, or fast rising but generally develop over a period of days. Flash floods usually result from intense storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief period. Flash floods occur with little or no warning and can reach full peak in only a few minutes.
When severe flooding is predicted, the City may send alerts to affected areas. Sign up for Chesapeake Alert to make sure the City can reach you.
Information & Resources
Flood Zone and Insurance Information
- Get Flood Fluent - information on why you should purchase flood insurance.
- FEMA National Flood Insurance Program - detailed information for property owners, claims adjusters, insurance professionals, lenders, state and local officials, and surveyors.
- Visit FEMA's mapping center to find out your flood zone.
- Video on the Flood Insurance Program - history, how it works, recent changes
- Using a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) - FEMA
- Top 10 Facts Every Consumer needs to know about the National Flood Insurance Program (FEMA)
- Myths and Facts about the National Flood Insurance Program (FEMA)
- How To Request a Flood Hazard Determination Review from FEMA
Most of the city of Chesapeake is susceptible to some level of flooding, and officials encourage all property owners and renters to contact an insurance agent to inquire about purchasing flood insurance.
Community Rating System
The City of Chesapeake is a member of the Community Rating System (CRS) through FEMA. The city has maintained a rating of a Class 8 since being accepted into the program in May of 2015. The city will undergo a technical review in 2019, which provides the city the opportunity to lower its rating to a better score, which means better incentives for homeowners with homes in a flood zone. Property owners in certain flood categories are eligible for a reduction in their flood insurance premiums. Residents in the “AE” zone, also known as the 100 year flood plain, are eligible for a 10% rate reduction, while those in the “X” zone, also known as the 500 year flood plain, can receive a 5% reduction. For specifics on individual premium changes, residents should contact their insurance provider.
Additional Resources for Homeowners and Builders
Live Tide Gauge Data