Nez Perce County Disaster Risk
Nez Perce County, Idaho
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
33th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#26
of 44 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
58th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 58% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Moderate
Higher than 89% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 8% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 38% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Nez Perce County, Idaho
Nez Perce County rates well nationally
Nez Perce County's composite risk score of 32.98 falls below the national average, earning a "Very Low" overall rating despite specific hazards in the region. This favorable national standing suggests residents face fewer catastrophic disaster threats than most U.S. counties.
Below-average risk statewide
With a score of 32.98, Nez Perce County sits just below Idaho's state average of 38.51, placing it in the mid-to-lower tier of the state's risk rankings. This balanced profile means the county avoids extreme exposure while still maintaining awareness of regional hazards.
Wildfire risk dominates in North-Central Idaho
Nez Perce County's 32.98 score ranks higher than Payette County (17.11) but below Madison County (58.62), reflecting its mid-range position in the region. The county's notable wildfire risk of 89.34 distinguishes it from some neighbors, making vegetation management especially important.
Wildfires threaten property and air quality
Nez Perce County faces a wildfire risk score of 89.34—among Idaho's highest—due to extensive forests and grasslands that ignite seasonally and spread rapidly. Flood risk at 57.70 represents a secondary threat, particularly in spring when snowmelt and heavy rains overwhelm creeks and rivers.
Prioritize wildfire preparedness and coverage
Homeowners in Nez Perce County should ensure their standard homeowners policy includes wildfire damage coverage and create defensible space by clearing dead vegetation within 100 feet of structures. Consider also reviewing flood insurance options through the National Flood Insurance Program, especially if your home lies in a flood-prone valley or near waterways.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Nez Perce County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Nez Perce County
Risk Verdict
Compared to the nation's 3,144 counties, Nez Perce County ranks at the 33th percentile for natural disaster risk — toward the safer end of the spectrum. At the 33th percentile nationally, Nez Perce County's natural hazard profile is comparatively favorable — community resilience is reinforced when individual households maintain a reviewed emergency plan.
Hazard Breakdown
Wildfire risk is Nez Perce County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 89th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 58th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (38th percentile), tornado (8th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Nez Perce County sits at the 89th percentile for wildfire exposure. Signing up for Nez Perce County's county emergency alert system and knowing the pre-planned evacuation route before conditions deteriorate are the two highest-value preparedness actions for residents here. The county's flood exposure at the 58th percentile nationally complements the wildfire risk — saturating rain after burn scarring often triggers secondary flood and debris flow events. In Nez Perce County, wildfire smoke often precedes the flame front by hours or days; households benefit from tracking EPA's AirNow.gov and having HEPA air filtration available as a first line of indoor protection when air quality alerts are issued.
Regional Context
At 5.5 points below the Idaho state average, Nez Perce County is among the lower-risk counties in the state for natural disaster exposure.
Is your household prepared for Nez Perce County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Nez Perce County, ID?
What types of natural hazards affect Nez Perce County?
How does Nez Perce County risk compare to the Idaho average?
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Is Nez Perce County a safe place to live?
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.