Lawrence County Disaster Risk
Lawrence County, Illinois
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
49th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#59
of 102 (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
Very Low
Higher than 1% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 46% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 85% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Lawrence County, Illinois
Lawrence County enjoys low national risk
With a composite risk score of 49.2 and a relatively low rating, Lawrence County ranks below the national average for disaster risk. This more favorable position reflects lower exposure to most common hazard types, though some risks remain.
Below-average risk within Illinois
Lawrence County's score of 49.2 falls slightly below Illinois' state average of 54.5, placing it among the lower-risk counties in the state. This relative safety makes Lawrence County one of the more resilient areas statewide.
Similar risk to nearby counties
Lawrence County's risk profile aligns closely with Logan County (58.1) and sits well below LaSalle County (86.1). The county benefits from lower exposure to most natural hazards compared to higher-risk neighbors to the north and west.
Earthquakes and floods pose concern
Lawrence County's earthquake risk of 85.5 and flood risk of 58.2 represent the county's highest hazard exposures. While wildfire risk is negligible at 0.5, residents should focus preparedness efforts on earthquake and flood readiness.
Don't skip flood and earthquake coverage
Lawrence County homeowners should secure flood insurance, particularly for properties in flood-prone areas, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. Earthquake insurance is also worth evaluating, as it's typically sold separately and can provide critical protection during seismic events.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Lawrence County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Lawrence County
Risk Verdict
Lawrence County has a below-average natural disaster risk profile, scoring at the 49th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Lawrence County residents can take confidence from a 49th percentile ranking, but even lower-risk counties benefit from a practiced household communication plan and awareness of the specific hazards listed above.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Lawrence County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 85th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 58th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include tornado (46th percentile), hurricane (22th percentile), wildfire (1th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake risk is Lawrence County's leading natural hazard, ranked at the 85th 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 58th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Lawrence 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
The Illinois county average exceeds Lawrence County's score by 5.2 composite points — placing this county in the lower-risk tier relative to its in-state peers.
Is your household prepared for Lawrence County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Lawrence County, IL?
What types of natural hazards affect Lawrence County?
How does Lawrence County risk compare to the Illinois average?
Is Lawrence County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Lawrence 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.