Marshall County Disaster Risk
Marshall County, Alabama
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
87th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#12
of 67 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
85th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 85% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 63% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively High
Higher than 98% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 88% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 69% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Marshall County, Alabama
Marshall County faces elevated national risk
Marshall County's composite risk score of 87.31 substantially exceeds the national average, placing it in the relatively moderate risk category. This score reflects considerable vulnerability across multiple hazard types, particularly tornadoes and flooding that demand active preparation.
Second-highest risk in Alabama
Marshall County ranks second statewide in disaster risk with a composite score of 87.31, trailing only Madison County's 94.56. This places Marshall County among Alabama's most vulnerable counties, requiring residents to treat disaster preparedness seriously.
Among the region's riskiest counties
Marshall County's 87.31 score exceeds all neighboring counties except Madison County (94.56), significantly outpacing Limestone County (79.96), Marion County (69.15), and Marengo County (52.16). The county's elevated position reflects exceptional exposure to tornadoes and floods.
Tornadoes and floods drive highest risks
Tornado risk reaches 97.81, placing Marshall County among America's most tornado-prone areas, while flood risk (85.27) poses nearly equivalent danger. Earthquake risk (87.72) and wildfire risk (63.17) complete a formidable hazard portfolio demanding comprehensive preparation.
Critical coverage for multiple hazards
Marshall County residents must establish safe rooms or identify accessible community shelters before tornado season begins each year. Maintain current NFIP flood insurance given the 85.27 flood score, ensure homeowners coverage includes wind damage, and develop detailed family emergency plans for tornadoes, floods, and other hazards.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Marshall County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Marshall County
Risk Verdict
FEMA's National Risk Index rates Marshall County at the 87th percentile nationally — above average and worth proactive preparation. Residents should prioritize a formal household emergency plan, including evacuation routes, insurance review, and a well-stocked emergency kit.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Marshall County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 98th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 88th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (85th percentile), hurricane (69th percentile), wildfire (63th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With tornado ranked at the 98th percentile nationally, Marshall County sits in a high-exposure zone where the difference between outcomes often comes down to proximity to a reinforced interior shelter and seconds of warning time. The secondary earthquake hazard at the 88th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Marshall County's preparedness calendar, since earthquake and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. For Marshall County households, safe rooms certified to FEMA 320/361 standards offer the highest protection during a direct tornado hit; households without a safe room should locate the innermost lowest-floor room in their building and practice the route to it before storm season.
Regional Context
Marshall County is 25.8 composite risk points above the Alabama average, indicating that residents face greater natural hazard exposure than most of their in-state neighbors.
Is your household prepared for Marshall County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Marshall County, AL?
What types of natural hazards affect Marshall County?
How does Marshall County risk compare to the Alabama average?
Is Marshall County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Marshall County higher risk than average?
Data Source
Risk data sourced from the FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). Risk scores are relative rankings (0–100) across all US counties — not absolute risk measures. Higher scores indicate higher relative risk compared to other counties.
Disclaimer: This data is informational only. It is not financial, insurance, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making insurance or real estate decisions.