Montgomery County Disaster Risk
Montgomery County, Indiana
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
41th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#50
of 92 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
43th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 43% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 11% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 48% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 71% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 31% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Montgomery County, Indiana
Montgomery County maintains low overall risk
Montgomery County's composite risk score of 41.00 falls just below Indiana's state average of 45.52, placing it in the very low risk category. While earthquake risk reaches 70.52, this largely reflects seismic sensitivity rather than active hazards, and other categories remain quite modest. Nationally, Montgomery County's profile suggests manageable natural disaster exposure.
Among Indiana's safer communities
Montgomery County ranks in the lower-risk tier statewide with a composite score of 41.00, marginally better than the state average of 45.52. It compares favorably to high-risk areas like Marion County (97.49) and Monroe County (75.99), reflecting more moderate hazard exposure across the board. Most Indiana residents live in counties with similar or higher risk levels.
Comparable to nearby Marshall County
Montgomery County's 41.00 score closely mirrors neighboring Marshall County (41.60), reflecting consistent risk patterns in the region. Both substantially exceed Miami County (52.80) and trail Monroe County (75.99), establishing a moderate risk corridor in west-central Indiana. Adjacent areas share similar preparedness priorities and insurance needs.
Tornado risk leads a modest profile
Tornado risk at 48.35 represents Montgomery County's primary natural disaster concern, though it remains below state and national averages. Earthquake sensitivity at 70.52 reflects geological factors rather than active hazards, while flood and wildfire risks stay low. Tornado preparedness is the main household priority.
Standard coverage with tornado focus
Montgomery County residents should maintain current homeowners insurance and develop a tornado plan—identifying safe rooms and practicing drills costs nothing but saves lives. Given lower flood and earthquake risks, standard policies provide adequate protection for most properties. Annual coverage reviews ensure household insurance remains current without requiring extensive add-ons.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Montgomery County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Montgomery County
Risk Verdict
Montgomery County carries a low natural disaster risk burden, scoring at the 41th percentile under the FEMA National Risk Index. Being ranked at the 41th percentile nationally is an advantage for Montgomery County — it means fewer statistically likely events, though basic readiness ensures households are covered when exceptions occur.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Montgomery County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 71th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 48th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (43th percentile), hurricane (31th percentile), wildfire (11th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Montgomery County's primary hazard, earthquake, ranks at the 71th percentile nationally. Unreinforced masonry structures carry the highest injury risk during seismic events; residents in older buildings should check with their municipality about available seismic retrofit programs. Tornado at the 48th percentile nationally is a separate hazard dimension for Montgomery County that requires different protective strategies from earthquake preparedness. After a major earthquake, Montgomery County residents should expect water service disruption for 24 to 72 or more hours. Storing a minimum of one gallon per person per day for three days — before any event — is the most direct preparedness action households can take.
Regional Context
At 4.5 points from the Indiana county mean, Montgomery County's overall disaster risk profile is close to typical for this state, with no dramatic deviation in either direction.
Is your household prepared for Montgomery County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Montgomery County, IN?
What types of natural hazards affect Montgomery County?
How does Montgomery County risk compare to the Indiana average?
Is Montgomery County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Montgomery 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.