Washington County Disaster Risk
Washington County, Maine
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
48th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#11
of 16 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
75th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 75% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 11% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 47% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Moderate
Higher than 86% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Washington County, Maine
Washington County is relatively low risk
Washington County's composite risk score of 47.55 places it in the relatively low category and just below Maine's state average of 56.75. The easternmost Maine county experiences modest exposure to hurricanes (85.94) and floods (74.60) that are common to Atlantic-facing regions. Geographic isolation and lower population density help keep overall vulnerability manageable despite coastal hazard exposure.
Below-average risk for Maine
Washington County's 47.55 composite score ranks it mid-range among Maine's 16 counties, placing it in the lower-risk half of the state despite its coastal location. The county sits 9 points below Maine's state average, reflecting resilience comparable to Piscataquis County (52.35) despite different geographic characteristics. This favorable profile distinguishes Washington from higher-risk southern and central Maine counties.
Lower risk than all major neighbors
Washington County's 47.55 score ranks it lower than neighboring Penobscot County (78.02) to the west and Piscataquis County (52.35) inland. Among coastal Maine counties, only Waldo (40.62) and Sagadahoc (23.35) present lower risk profiles. Washington's easternmost location and sparse development patterns create a naturally resilient environment compared to more densely populated regions.
Floods and hurricanes dominate risk profile
Flood risk at 74.60 is Washington County's most significant natural hazard concern, affecting river valleys and coastal low-lying areas where precipitation and storm surge accumulate. Hurricane risk at 85.94 creates secondary flood and wind damage threats from Atlantic tropical storms. Earthquake (46.72), tornado (11.04), and wildfire (21.76) risks all remain minimal, making water and wind the primary hazard types to address.
Flood insurance is important coverage
Standalone flood insurance should be a priority for Washington County residents given the 74.60 flood risk, particularly those in mapped floodplains or near waterways. Wind and hail coverage complements this protection against the 85.94 hurricane risk, ensuring comprehensive storm damage coverage. Earthquake insurance is not economically justified by the 46.72 score, allowing residents to concentrate resources on water and wind preparedness.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Washington County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Washington County
Risk Verdict
Washington County sits below the national average for natural disaster exposure, ranking at the 48th percentile across all U.S. counties. At the 48th percentile nationally, Washington County's natural hazard profile is comparatively favorable — community resilience is reinforced when individual households maintain a reviewed emergency plan.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Washington County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 86th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 75th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (47th percentile), wildfire (22th percentile), tornado (11th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 86th percentile nationally for hurricane risk, Washington County is in a zone where flood insurance matters beyond the primary wind risk: NFIP flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period before taking effect, making off-season enrollment the correct timing. Washington County's flood exposure at the 75th percentile nationally adds a hazard layer that can persist or intensify after hurricane-force winds have passed, particularly in low-lying inland areas. For Washington County households, the hurricane preparedness calendar matters: flood insurance has a 30-day waiting period, wind-hardening retrofits take weeks to schedule, and evacuation route scouting is best done before a storm watch is issued.
Regional Context
Washington County is 9.2 composite risk points below the Maine state mean, meaning most other Maine counties face higher natural hazard exposure.
Is your household prepared for Washington County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Washington County, ME?
What types of natural hazards affect Washington County?
How does Washington County risk compare to the Maine average?
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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.