Butler County Disaster Risk
Butler County, Kentucky
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
18th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#103
of 120 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
24th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 24% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 5% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 46% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 67% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 20% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Butler County, Kentucky
Butler County ranks among safest nationwide
Butler County's composite risk score of 18.13 and Very Low rating place it well below the national average of roughly 50. This low risk profile means residents enjoy substantially greater protection from natural disasters than most Americans.
One of Kentucky's safest counties
Butler County's score of 18.13 sits far below Kentucky's state average of 44.21, placing it among the commonwealth's safest counties. Residents here face significantly lower disaster exposure than the typical Kentuckian.
Safer than neighboring south-central counties
Butler County's Very Low rating outpaces the risk levels in surrounding south-central Kentucky counties. Its relatively gentle terrain and distance from major river systems shield it from the flooding and seismic hazards affecting nearby regions.
Earthquake risk is Butler's primary concern
Earthquake risk (66.95) is Butler County's highest hazard rating, followed by tornado risk (45.58) at moderate levels. Flood, wildfire, and hurricane risks all remain well below concerning thresholds, making this one of Kentucky's safest counties overall.
Standard insurance provides adequate protection
Butler County's low overall risk means standard homeowners insurance offers solid protection for most residents. Consider an earthquake rider for older homes, and conduct annual policy reviews to ensure coverage remains adequate for your property's current value.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Butler County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Butler County
Risk Verdict
Butler County's overall natural disaster score at the 18th percentile puts it well below the national median for hazard exposure. The 18th percentile national ranking is one lens; Butler County residents also benefit from reviewing which specific hazard types drive the county's composite score and preparing accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Butler County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 67th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 46th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (24th percentile), hurricane (20th percentile), wildfire (5th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake exposure at the 67th percentile nationally puts Butler 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. The county's tornado risk at the 46th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Butler 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
Butler County's composite risk score sits 26.1 points below the Kentucky county average, reflecting a more favorable hazard environment than the state typical.
Is your household prepared for Butler County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Butler County, KY?
What types of natural hazards affect Butler County?
How does Butler County risk compare to the Kentucky average?
Is Butler County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Butler 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.