Scott County Disaster Risk
Scott County, Iowa
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
85th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#4
of 99 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
88th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 88% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 52% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 83% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 75% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 17% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Scott County, Iowa
Scott County faces above-average disaster risk
Scott County's composite risk score of 84.89 earns a Relatively Moderate rating—more than double Iowa's state average of 39.68. This places it among higher-risk areas nationally and reflects significant exposure to multiple hazards.
Scott ranks among Iowa's riskiest counties
At 84.89, Scott County substantially exceeds the state average, putting it in Iowa's upper tier of natural disaster risk. Its risk profile stands out as notably higher than most other Iowa counties.
Scott faces steeper risks than neighbors
Scott County's 84.89 score dramatically exceeds nearby Story County (68.83) and Tama County (45.32). It emerges as the highest-risk county in its immediate region.
Floods and tornadoes top the threat list
Flood risk (88.42) and tornado risk (82.89) dominate Scott County's hazard profile, with wildfire (52.23) and earthquake (75.13) risks also elevated. The combination of water and wind threats makes Scott County's disaster preparedness unusually critical.
Comprehensive coverage is essential here
Scott County residents need flood insurance—a separate policy from standard homeowner's coverage—plus tornado and wind protection. Review your coverage annually and ensure your policy limits match your home's replacement cost.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Scott County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Scott County
Risk Verdict
At the 85th percentile nationally, Scott County sits in the upper half of U.S. counties for natural disaster exposure. At this risk level, having a documented household preparedness plan — not just awareness — is the meaningful next step for Scott County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Scott County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 88th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 83th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (75th percentile), wildfire (52th percentile), hurricane (17th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 88th percentile nationally for flood risk, Scott County residents benefit from understanding their specific flood zone status. Even one inch of floodwater causes significant structural damage to properties outside officially designated high-risk zones. Secondary tornado exposure at the 83th percentile adds a second preparedness layer; households should review coverage options and alert sign-up for both hazard types. A tested family preparedness plan specific to Scott County's primary hazards — including how to shelter in place or evacuate, and who to call — provides more real protection than a general emergency kit sitting unused on a shelf.
Regional Context
The Iowa county average is 45.2 composite points below Scott County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Scott County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Scott County, IA?
What types of natural hazards affect Scott County?
How does Scott County risk compare to the Iowa average?
Is Scott County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Scott 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.