Oxford County Disaster Risk
Oxford County, Maine
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
66th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#7
of 16 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
73th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 73% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 27% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 17% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 60% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Moderate
Higher than 86% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Oxford County, Maine
Oxford sits above the national average
Oxford County's composite risk score of 65.90 places it in the relatively low category, but it exceeds the typical U.S. county baseline. This reflects elevated exposure to coastal hazards—particularly hurricane and flood risks—that characterize Maine's natural disaster profile. While tornado and wildfire threats remain minimal, the county's overall vulnerability merits proactive preparation.
Moderate risk among Maine counties
Oxford County's 65.90 score ranks it in the middle range of Maine's 16 counties, sitting above the state average of 56.75. This places it as a moderate-concern area compared to lower-risk counties like Sagadahoc and Waldo, but below higher-risk neighbors like York. The county's position reflects its mixed exposure to multiple hazard types across its rural and suburban landscapes.
Higher risk than western neighbors
Oxford's 65.90 score exceeds nearby Somerset County (67.94, actually slightly higher) and significantly surpasses Piscataquis County to the north at 52.35. Among its peers, Oxford carries elevated risk primarily due to hurricane exposure (86.11) and flood vulnerability (73.25), which outpace the inland counties of western Maine. Residents share similar coastal storm exposure as much of southern Maine.
Hurricanes and floods dominate here
Hurricane risk in Oxford County reaches 86.11, making tropical storms the leading natural hazard threat to homes and infrastructure. Flood risk at 73.25 compounds this danger, particularly in river valleys and low-lying areas where water accumulation after heavy precipitation is common. Tornado and wildfire risks remain minimal (16.70 and 27.23 respectively), allowing residents to focus preparedness efforts on storm and water damage protection.
Prioritize flood and storm coverage
Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes flood damage; Oxford County residents should strongly consider standalone flood insurance given the 73.25 flood risk score. Wind and hail coverage becomes essential with a hurricane risk of 86.11, and reviewing policy limits ensures adequate protection against storm damage that exceeds typical deductibles. Elevation, proper drainage, and reinforced roofing are equally important investments for long-term protection.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Oxford County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Oxford County
Risk Verdict
With a national percentile rank of 66th, Oxford County faces below-average hazard exposure relative to U.S. counties as a whole. Above-average risk does not mean imminent danger; it signals that informed, hazard-specific preparedness has high value here.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Oxford County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 86th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 73th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (60th percentile), wildfire (27th percentile), tornado (17th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 86th percentile nationally for hurricane exposure, Oxford County households benefit from reviewing both homeowners and flood insurance coverage before storm season begins — standard policies often exclude storm surge, which is the leading cause of hurricane fatalities. Oxford County's flood exposure at the 73th percentile nationally adds a hazard layer that can persist or intensify after hurricane-force winds have passed, particularly in low-lying inland areas. Hurricane-force winds cause direct property damage, but storm surge causes the majority of hurricane-related deaths. Oxford County households near tidal water or low-elevation areas should verify whether they are in a storm surge risk zone.
Regional Context
At 9.2 points above the Maine state average, Oxford County carries meaningfully higher natural disaster exposure than a typical Maine county.
Is your household prepared for Oxford County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Oxford County, ME?
What types of natural hazards affect Oxford County?
How does Oxford County risk compare to the Maine average?
Is Oxford County at risk for hurricane?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Oxford 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.