When it comes to understanding weather in the United States, we have to remember that it can drastically change between each state. For all extreme weather, some states are more likely to experience certain events than others. So let’s find out: What states don’t flood?

Technically, every state has the potential to flood; however, some states are considered the least likely to flood. Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Wyoming are the states with the least annual rainfall, and therefore, they do not usually flood. 

In this article, we are going to talk about which states are less likely to flood and why, as well as which states have the safest weather and the fewest natural disasters. You are going to be a flood expert in no time!

Which States Are the Least Likely to Flood?

So, what states don’t flood? Well, every one of the 50 states has experienced at least some flooding. However, there are certain states where floods are incredibly infrequent. 

Here are the states which have little to no flooding:

  • Nevada
  • Arizona
  • Utah
  • New Mexico
  • Wyoming

Now, knowing which states are least likely to flood is important, but you might also be wondering why these states have the least flooding! 

Why Do Some States Flood Less Than Others?

First and foremost, it’s important to understand what causes floods.

Flooding occurs when excess water extends over dry land. This usually occurs when lakes, rivers, or creeks overflow due to heavy rain, and melting snow and ice also can cause significant flooding. 

Consequently, the reason why some states flood less than others is that they do not experience excessive snow or rainfall.

Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Wyoming are the 5 states within the United States that have the least snow and rainfall every year, which means they are the least likely to experience flooding. 

Rainfall by State

The average annual rainfall throughout the USA is 30.28 inches; however, these states record far fewer inches every year. 

  • Nevada: As the driest state in the USA, Nevada only sees 10.3 inches of rain in a year. 
  • Arizona: With only 12.6 inches of average annual rainfall, Arizona is also known for its lack of flooding. 
  • Utah: The warm state of Utah has a low annual precipitation of 13.6 inches. And the Great Salt Lake Desert only experiences 5 inches per year. 
  • New Mexico: As the fourth driest state in the country, the average rainfall in New Mexico is 14 inches every year. 
  • Wyoming: While overall, Wyoming’s average annual rainfall is only 15.9 inches, the mountainous areas of the state see much more snow than the flatter regions. 

It’s vital to understand that floods can still occur in these states, even though it is unlikely.

Floods throughout these regions are almost always caused by intense storms or natural disasters, as opposed to standard weather patterns. 

Are States that Don’t Flood Safer?

You may be thinking that the states that don’t usually flood are safer than those that do, and in some ways, you’re right. 

These 5 states, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and Wyoming, are far less likely to experience a natural disaster than states along the coast or in the far north.

However, because they don’t often see extreme weather, these states are not known for their disaster preparedness. 

When it comes to staying safe from a flood, certain states are extremely prepared and, therefore, are considered safer than others. 

As well, although if you live in one of these states, you probably won’t have to deal with flooding, the opposite problem is quite common: draughts. 

What States Do Flood?

Remember, floods can happen in every state; however, some are much more likely to experience flooding. Now that you know which states have the least flooding, let’s learn about those that have the most.

  • California
  • Florida 
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Georgia 

Flooding is a big problem throughout the United States, and it is important to understand where they are more common versus less likely. 

But remember, states that don’t flood aren’t necessarily safer than those that do; you still have to be careful of other natural disasters and aware of your state’s preparedness. 

Final Thoughts

So, what states don’t flood? Well, now you know that every state has the capacity to flood. If there is excessive snow or rainfall, a flash flood due to a storm, or a variety of other extreme weather patterns that can occur, any region in the USA could have a freak flood. 

But, certain states are far less likely to flood, and that list includes Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Wyoming. 

Hopefully, you now understand everything there is to know about the states that don’t usually flood, those states that often do flood, and even how to understand what makes a state safe from extreme weather.