Marshall County Disaster Risk
Marshall County, Indiana
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
42th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#48
of 92 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
45th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 45% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 7% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 66% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 54% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 32% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Marshall County, Indiana
Marshall County's risk remains modest
Marshall County's composite risk score of 41.60 places it in the very low category and runs slightly below Indiana's state average of 45.52. While tornado risk reaches 66.28, other hazards remain relatively contained, resulting in a balanced overall risk profile. Compared to the nation's most hazard-prone counties, Marshall County faces measurably lower natural disaster exposure.
Among Indiana's safer counties
Marshall County ranks in the lower-risk tier statewide, with a composite score of 41.60 that falls below the state average of 45.52. Its risk profile is substantially better than Marion County (97.49) and Monroe County (75.99), reflecting more moderate hazard exposure. Most Indiana counties share similar or slightly higher risk levels than Marshall.
Fairly comparable to surrounding areas
Marshall County's 41.60 score sits close to neighboring Montgomery County (41.00) and Miami County (52.80), reflecting consistent risk patterns across north-central Indiana. The region shares moderate tornado exposure but avoids the extreme earthquake and flood risks seen in counties further south. Adjacent areas show similar preparedness priorities.
Tornadoes are the main concern
Tornado risk dominates Marshall County at 66.28, substantially higher than other hazards and the primary natural disaster threat residents face. Flood risk reaches 44.91, roughly in line with state averages, while earthquake and wildfire risks remain low. Tornado preparedness should be the primary focus for households here.
Focus tornado prep, standard coverage works
Marshall County residents should ensure standard homeowners insurance is current and add a tornado/hail deductible if available to manage wind damage costs. Developing a tornado plan—identifying safe rooms, practicing drills, and staying weather-aware—is more critical than extensive add-on coverage. Given lower flood and earthquake risks, standard policies provide adequate protection for most households.
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
Compared to the nation's 3,144 counties, Marshall County ranks at the 42th percentile for natural disaster risk — toward the safer end of the spectrum. Marshall County's 42th percentile ranking is favorable, though every county carries at least one natural hazard worth knowing — reviewing the specific risks listed above helps households focus their preparedness where it matters most.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Marshall County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 66th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 54th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (45th percentile), hurricane (32th percentile), wildfire (7th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado exposure at the 66th percentile nationally makes Marshall County a county where a battery-powered weather radio — not just smartphone apps — is a worthwhile household investment, given that mobile networks often fail during severe storms. The secondary earthquake hazard at the 54th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Marshall County's preparedness calendar, since earthquake and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. In Marshall County, tornado watches indicate favorable atmospheric conditions while warnings mean rotation has been detected — households benefit from understanding this distinction so they shelter immediately on a warning, not after seeking visual confirmation.
Regional Context
Marshall County sits within 3.9 composite points of the Indiana state average, suggesting the county's hazard exposure is representative of the broader regional pattern.
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, IN?
What types of natural hazards affect Marshall County?
How does Marshall County risk compare to the Indiana average?
Is Marshall County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Marshall 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.