Hawaii County Disaster Risk
Hawaii County, Hawaii
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively High
National Percentile
99th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#2
of 5 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
99th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively High
Higher than 99% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively High
Higher than 98% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 7% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively High
Higher than 99% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 68% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Hawaii County, Hawaii
Hawaii County faces significantly elevated disaster risk
With a composite risk score of 98.51, Hawaii County ranks as relatively high risk — well above the national average. This score reflects serious exposure to multiple hazard types that affect island communities.
Highest risk among Hawaii's four counties
Hawaii County's 98.51 composite score places it at the top of risk levels statewide, exceeding the state average of 74.99 by 31 percent. Only Honolulu County approaches similar risk levels across the island state.
Risk mirrors neighboring Honolulu County
Hawaii County's 98.51 score closely tracks Honolulu County's 98.76, making both the state's riskiest counties. In contrast, Maui County (93.13) and Kauai County (84.45) face substantially lower composite risk levels.
Earthquakes and floods pose the greatest threats
Earthquake risk scores 99.14 here — among the highest hazards residents face — while flood risk reaches 98.89, reflecting Hawaii County's volcanic terrain and coastal exposure. Wildfire risk also runs high at 98.28, particularly during dry seasons.
Comprehensive insurance protects against island hazards
Hawaii County residents should prioritize earthquake coverage and flood insurance, as standard homeowner policies exclude both. Working with a local agent familiar with volcanic and coastal risks ensures your home and family have appropriate protection.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Hawaii County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Hawaii County
Risk Verdict
Hawaii County carries an elevated natural disaster risk burden, scoring at the 99th percentile nationally under FEMA's risk model. This risk level calls for more than general awareness: insurance coverage review, a family communication plan, and a prepared go-bag are practical priorities.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Hawaii County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 99th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 99th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (98th percentile), hurricane (68th percentile), tornado (7th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake risk is Hawaii County's leading natural hazard, ranked at the 99th percentile nationally. Securing tall furniture, water heaters, and bookcases to walls with anti-tip hardware is among the simplest and most effective life-safety measures households can take. The county's flood risk at the 99th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Hawaii County residents should locate the main gas shutoff valve and keep an appropriate wrench nearby — gas leaks cause a significant share of earthquake-related injuries and fires, and the shutoff step is safe to take immediately after shaking stops.
Regional Context
Hawaii County's composite risk score sits 23.5 points above the Hawaii county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Hawaii County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Hawaii County, HI?
What types of natural hazards affect Hawaii County?
How does Hawaii County risk compare to the Hawaii average?
Is Hawaii County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Hawaii 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.