Barnstable County Disaster Risk
Barnstable County, Massachusetts
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
89th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#9
of 14 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
95th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively High
Higher than 95% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 53% 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 78% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively High
Higher than 95% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Barnstable County, Massachusetts
Barnstable's risk exceeds national norms
Barnstable County scores 89.09 on the composite risk scale, placing it firmly above the national average and marking it as relatively moderate in overall disaster risk. This elevated score reflects the county's coastal geography and vulnerability to Atlantic weather systems. Residents here face meaningfully higher hazard exposure than the typical American county.
Fourth-highest risk in Massachusetts
With a composite risk score of 89.09, Barnstable ranks among the state's riskier counties—above the Massachusetts average of 78.84. Only Essex, Hampden, and Bristol counties face higher composite risk in the state. This positioning reflects Barnstable's peninsula location and storm-prone Atlantic exposure.
Higher risk than western neighbors
Barnstable's 89.09 score significantly outpaces nearby Franklin County (60.72) and Hampshire County (69.88), though it runs roughly even with Bristol County (89.85) to the south. The gap widens dramatically when compared to Dukes County (16.79), which enjoys exceptional shelter despite its island geography. Coastal position, not distance, drives Barnstable's elevated risk profile.
Hurricanes and floods dominate here
Barnstable residents confront extreme hurricane risk (94.53) and severe flood risk (94.60)—the two hazards most likely to impact daily life and property. Earthquake risk (78.12) represents a secondary but meaningful threat, while tornado (45.52) and wildfire (53.21) risks remain moderate. Coastal storms and rising water represent your county's defining disaster challenges.
Flood and wind coverage are essential
With hurricane and flood risks both in the 94+ range, standard homeowners insurance is insufficient—flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program and enhanced wind/hurricane riders are critical. Review your policy annually, especially before hurricane season, and consider elevation or flood-proofing improvements if you're in a mapped risk zone. Your coastal location demands active, layered protection strategies.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Barnstable County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Barnstable County
Risk Verdict
At the 89th percentile nationally, Barnstable 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 Barnstable County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Barnstable County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 95th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane ranks second at the 95th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (78th percentile), wildfire (53th percentile), tornado (46th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 95th percentile nationally for flood risk, Barnstable 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 hurricane exposure at the 95th 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 Barnstable 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 Massachusetts county average is 10.3 composite points below Barnstable County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Barnstable County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Barnstable County, MA?
What types of natural hazards affect Barnstable County?
How does Barnstable County risk compare to the Massachusetts average?
Is Barnstable County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Barnstable 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.