Russell County Disaster Risk
Russell County, Kentucky
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
32th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#77
of 120 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
36th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 36% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 30% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 64% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 56% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 49% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Russell County, Kentucky
Russell County maintains very low national disaster risk
Russell County's composite risk score of 31.87 ranks it as very low risk, substantially below both the national median and Kentucky's state average of 44.21. This favorable profile reflects relatively balanced and modest exposure across all major hazard categories.
Russell ranks among Kentucky's safest counties
Russell County's score of 31.87 places it in the lower quartile of Kentucky's 120 counties for composite disaster risk, making it one of the state's safer communities. The county benefits from a geographic position that minimizes extreme hazard exposure.
Russell part of south-central Kentucky's safe zone
Russell County's 31.87 score aligns closely with neighboring Powell County (31.20) and Rockcastle County (36.13), creating a pocket of relative safety in south-central Kentucky. This contrasts significantly with Pike County (87.88), Perry County (73.22), and Pulaski County (79.13) to the north and northeast.
Tornado risk is Russell's most elevated hazard
Russell County's highest risk score is tornado at 64.09, substantially above state average but the county's only significant vulnerability among major hazard types. Earthquake risk (56.36) and hurricane risk (49.23) remain moderate, while flood (35.66) and wildfire (29.83) risks rank among Kentucky's lowest.
Tornado awareness essential despite overall low risk
Russell County residents should prioritize tornado preparedness and awareness given the county's elevated tornado risk of 64.09, identifying safe shelter locations and maintaining a disaster kit. Standard homeowners or renters insurance provides adequate coverage for most hazards, though families should monitor severe weather alerts during spring and early summer months.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Russell County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Russell County
Risk Verdict
Compared to the nation's 3,144 counties, Russell County ranks at the 32th percentile for natural disaster risk — toward the safer end of the spectrum. Being ranked at the 32th percentile nationally is an advantage for Russell County — it means fewer statistically likely events, though basic readiness ensures households are covered when exceptions occur.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Russell County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 64th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 56th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include hurricane (49th percentile), flood (36th percentile), wildfire (30th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado exposure at the 64th percentile nationally makes Russell 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 56th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Russell County's preparedness calendar, since earthquake and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. In Russell 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
At 12.3 points below the Kentucky state average, Russell County is among the lower-risk counties in the state for natural disaster exposure.
Is your household prepared for Russell County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Russell County, KY?
What types of natural hazards affect Russell County?
How does Russell County risk compare to the Kentucky average?
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Is Russell 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.