Monroe County Disaster Risk
Monroe County, Indiana
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
76th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#16
of 92 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
81th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 81% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 31% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 82% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 88% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 24% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Monroe County, Indiana
Monroe County faces above-average hazards
Monroe County's composite risk score of 75.99 substantially exceeds Indiana's state average of 45.52, placing it firmly in the relatively high-risk category. Earthquake risk reaches 87.63 and tornado risk climbs to 82.16, both well above national norms, while flood risk at 80.82 reinforces broad vulnerability. Nationally, Monroe County's profile reflects notably elevated natural disaster exposure.
Second-riskiest county in Indiana
Monroe County ranks as Indiana's second-most hazard-exposed region with a composite score of 75.99, trailing only Marion County (97.49). Its 75.99 score substantially exceeds the state average of 45.52, reflecting serious vulnerability across multiple hazard types. Only Marion County faces comparably elevated natural disaster risk within Indiana.
Significantly riskier than surroundings
Monroe County's 75.99 score substantially exceeds all neighboring areas: Miami County (52.80), Morgan County (63.49), and Montgomery County (41.00) each rank considerably lower. Monroe County stands out as the clear risk leader in its region, reflecting its unique hazard exposure profile. Nearby residents face measurably lower combined natural disaster threats.
Earthquakes, tornadoes, and floods converge
Monroe County faces a dangerous convergence of three major hazards: earthquake risk at 87.63, tornado risk at 82.16, and flood risk at 80.82, each substantially above state and national averages. This triple-threat profile makes Monroe County one of Indiana's most hazard-vulnerable regions. Preparation for all three categories is essential for household safety.
Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable
Monroe County residents should obtain flood insurance, earthquake coverage, and comprehensive homeowners policies—standard insurance excludes both flooding and earthquake damage. Structural reinforcement (foundation anchoring, roof straps) helps resist both earthquakes and tornadoes, offering dual protection benefits. Annual policy reviews and multi-hazard preparedness drills are critical given the county's elevated risk profile.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Monroe County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Monroe County
Risk Verdict
Natural hazard pressure in Monroe County is below the national midpoint, with a composite score at the 76th percentile. Residents should prioritize a formal household emergency plan, including evacuation routes, insurance review, and a well-stocked emergency kit.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Monroe County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 88th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 82th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (81th percentile), wildfire (31th percentile), hurricane (24th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake exposure at the 88th percentile nationally puts Monroe County in a zone where utilities — gas, water, electrical — are the most common post-quake hazard. Knowing how to shut off the main gas valve is an important household skill to develop before an event occurs. Alongside earthquake exposure, Monroe County's tornado risk at the 82th percentile nationally reinforces the value of maintaining a household emergency supply cache usable for multiple hazard scenarios. Monroe County households benefit from keeping shoes and a flashlight near the bed — post-earthquake navigation through debris in the dark is a common cause of secondary injury. This low-cost step has outsized protective value.
Regional Context
Monroe County is 30.5 composite risk points above the Indiana average, indicating that residents face greater natural hazard exposure than most of their in-state neighbors.
Is your household prepared for Monroe County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Monroe County, IN?
What types of natural hazards affect Monroe County?
How does Monroe County risk compare to the Indiana average?
Is Monroe County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Monroe 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.