Lee County Disaster Risk
Lee County, Mississippi
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
81th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#12
of 82 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
72th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 72% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 37% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 87% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 93% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 69% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Lee County, Mississippi
Lee County faces above-average disaster risk
With a composite risk score of 81.27, Lee County ranks in the relatively moderate category—significantly higher than the national average. This score reflects serious exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly earthquakes and tornadoes, that demand preparedness attention.
Among Mississippi's highest-risk counties
Lee County's score of 81.27 far exceeds Mississippi's state average of 50.94, placing it in the upper tier of disaster risk across the state. This elevated standing reflects the county's particular vulnerability to seismic and severe convective hazards.
Notably riskier than nearby Tupelo region
Lee County's 81.27 score substantially exceeds neighboring Monroe County (68.54) and Marshall County (71.18), making it the riskiest in its immediate area. The primary driver of this difference is Lee's exceptionally high earthquake risk of 93.38, well above the region's typical exposure.
Earthquakes and tornadoes are your main threats
Lee County faces an earthquake risk score of 93.38 and tornado risk of 86.77—the two hazards most likely to affect the county. Earthquake activity, though infrequent, can cause significant structural damage, while tornadoes pose an annual threat during spring and early summer months.
Get earthquake and wind insurance now
Standard homeowners policies typically exclude earthquake damage, making separate earthquake coverage essential for Lee County residents. Adding comprehensive wind coverage and confirming flood insurance eligibility will provide the protection your county's hazard profile demands.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Lee County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Lee County
Risk Verdict
At the 81th percentile nationally, Lee 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 Lee County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Lee County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 93th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 87th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (72th percentile), hurricane (69th percentile), wildfire (37th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With earthquake ranked as the top hazard at the 93th percentile nationally, Lee County residents benefit from reviewing homeowners insurance: standard policies rarely cover earthquake damage, and separate earthquake insurance must be purchased before an event. The county's tornado risk at the 87th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Earthquake insurance in Lee County is typically offered as a separate policy — standard homeowners coverage excludes ground movement. Reviewing this gap and comparing policy options before an event is a financial preparedness step with potentially large consequences.
Regional Context
The Mississippi county average is 30.3 composite points below Lee County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Lee County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Lee County, MS?
What types of natural hazards affect Lee County?
How does Lee County risk compare to the Mississippi average?
Is Lee County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Lee 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.