Study Highlights Gaps in U.S. Flood Insurance Coverage and Risk Mapping
Study Highlights Gaps in U.S. Flood Insurance Coverage and Risk Mapping
US · Published Sep 9, 2026
A recent study conducted by researchers at Texas Tech University has revealed significant discrepancies between mapped flood zones and actual hydrologic susceptibility in the United States.
The study, which analyzed data from 2010 to 2024, found that flood damage assistance is more closely aligned with hydrologic risk than with FEMA's mapped flood zones.

Impact & Risks

The study highlights a critical gap in flood risk management, as many areas with high hydrologic susceptibility are not adequately covered by the National Flood Insurance Program. This misalignment could leave vulnerable communities at greater risk of financial and physical harm during flood events. The reliance on outdated or incomplete flood zone maps may lead to underinsurance in high-risk areas and overinsurance in low-risk zones, potentially exacerbating the financial burden on affected households. The findings underscore the need for more accurate risk assessments to ensure equitable and effective flood insurance coverage.

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