Clinton County Disaster Risk
Clinton County, New York
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
69th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#33
of 62 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
82th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 82% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 24% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 26% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 84% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 61% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Clinton County, New York
Clinton County's risk slightly below average
Clinton County scores 68.80 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the relatively low risk category and just below the national baseline. The county's overall exposure to natural hazards is moderate and manageable with appropriate preparation. This favorable position reflects a mix of lower tornado and wildfire risks balanced against moderate flood and earthquake exposure.
Among New York's safer counties overall
At 68.80, Clinton County scores slightly below New York's state average of 69.42, positioning it favorably compared to most state counties. This below-average ranking places Clinton among the safer regions in New York for composite disaster risk. The county's relatively low exposure provides a solid foundation for straightforward risk management.
Safest county in this comparison group
Clinton County's 68.80 score ranks it as the lowest-risk county among these eight regional counties, notably safer than Chenango (72.33), Columbia (68.67), and all higher-risk neighbors. Essex County (62.66) edges slightly lower, but Clinton remains well-protected relative to its immediate peers. This comparative safety translates to more predictable insurance costs and simpler preparedness needs.
Earthquake and flood risks demand attention
Clinton County faces its greatest natural hazard exposure from earthquakes (83.52) and floods (82.38), both substantially elevated despite the county's overall low-risk rating. Tornado risk (26.30) and wildfire danger (24.20) remain minimal concerns. The earthquake and flood combination reflects the county's proximity to geological fault lines and water-rich terrain.
Earthquake and flood insurance are essential
Despite Clinton's favorable overall ranking, your county's earthquake risk (83.52) makes seismic coverage a priority consideration many homeowners overlook—contact your insurer about this specialized protection. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program covers your second-largest risk (82.38). Bundle both with standard homeowners insurance for comprehensive protection.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Clinton County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Clinton County
Risk Verdict
Clinton County's FEMA risk score places it at the 69th percentile nationally, indicating lower-than-typical exposure for a U.S. county. A moderate composite score often means one or two hazard categories are doing the heavy lifting — knowing which ones matters for preparation.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Clinton County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 84th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 82th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include hurricane (61th percentile), tornado (26th percentile), wildfire (24th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With earthquake ranked as the top hazard at the 84th percentile nationally, Clinton 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 flood risk at the 82th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Earthquake insurance in Clinton 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
Clinton County sits within 0.6 composite points of the New York state average, suggesting the county's hazard exposure is representative of the broader regional pattern.
Is your household prepared for Clinton County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Clinton County, NY?
What types of natural hazards affect Clinton County?
How does Clinton County risk compare to the New York average?
Is Clinton County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Clinton 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.