Kootenai County Disaster Risk
Kootenai County, Idaho
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
79th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#3
of 44 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
86th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 86% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 80% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 79% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Kootenai County, Idaho
Kootenai County faces moderate national hazard exposure
With a composite score of 78.98 and "Relatively Low" rating, Kootenai County sits at the higher end of moderate risk nationally. The county's diverse hazard profile—flood, wildfire, earthquake, and tornado—creates layered vulnerability.
Kootenai County ranks as Idaho's highest-risk area
At 78.98, Kootenai County nearly doubles the state average of 38.51, positioning it as the single highest-risk county in Idaho. This elevation reflects the county's geographic exposure across multiple disaster types.
Kootenai County far exceeds nearby counties
Kootenai County's 78.98 vastly outpaces Latah County (33.27) and Lewis County (3.09), making it a clear outlier in northern Idaho. The county's unique risk profile distinguishes it significantly from surrounding areas.
Flood, wildfire, and earthquake all threaten residents
Flood risk reaches 86.32, wildfire hits 79.52, and earthquake exposure stands at 79.17—all substantially elevated. Tornado risk is also notably higher at 22.01 compared to most Idaho counties.
Comprehensive coverage is essential for safety
Homeowners should carry flood insurance, wildfire coverage, and earthquake protection given Kootenai County's multiple hazard exposures. Standard policies cover none of these; work with an agent to close all gaps before disaster strikes.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Kootenai County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Kootenai County
Risk Verdict
Kootenai County's FEMA risk score places it at the 79th percentile nationally, indicating lower-than-typical exposure for a U.S. county. At this risk level, having a documented household preparedness plan — not just awareness — is the meaningful next step for Kootenai County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Kootenai County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 86th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Wildfire ranks second at the 80th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (79th percentile), tornado (22th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 86th percentile nationally for flood risk, Kootenai County residents benefit from understanding their specific flood zone status. Even one inch of floodwater causes significant structural damage to properties outside officially designated high-risk zones. Secondary wildfire exposure at the 80th percentile adds a second preparedness layer; households should review coverage options and alert sign-up for both hazard types. A tested family preparedness plan specific to Kootenai County's primary hazards — including how to shelter in place or evacuate, and who to call — provides more real protection than a general emergency kit sitting unused on a shelf.
Regional Context
The Idaho county average is 40.5 composite points below Kootenai County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Kootenai County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Kootenai County, ID?
What types of natural hazards affect Kootenai County?
How does Kootenai County risk compare to the Idaho average?
Is Kootenai County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Kootenai 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.