Beaufort County Disaster Risk
Beaufort County, North Carolina
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
88th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#20
of 100 (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
Relatively Low
Higher than 66% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 75% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 48% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively High
Higher than 97% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Beaufort County, North Carolina
Beaufort County faces elevated national risk
Beaufort County's composite risk score of 88.17 places it significantly above the U.S. average, earning a "Relatively Moderate" rating. This coastal county's exposure to hurricanes (97.46) and flooding (82.20) creates one of North Carolina's most hazard-exposed locations.
Among North Carolina's highest-risk counties
At 88.17, Beaufort County far exceeds the state average of 66.72, ranking among the most disaster-prone jurisdictions in North Carolina. The county's coastal location and low elevation create compounding flood and hurricane vulnerability.
Highest risk in eastern North Carolina
Beaufort County's 88.17 score significantly exceeds neighboring Bertie County (66.38), making it the riskiest jurisdiction in eastern North Carolina. The county's hurricane risk at 97.46 is unmatched among its peers.
Hurricanes and flooding dominate your profile
Hurricane risk reaches 97.46 in Beaufort County—among the highest in the nation—with flood risk following closely at 82.20. Tornado risk at 74.59 adds a third threat, making tropical storm season and spring weather your most dangerous periods.
Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable
Beaufort County residents must secure both homeowners insurance and separate flood insurance through the NFIP, as standard policies exclude water damage. Consider hurricane-resistant shutters, roof reinforcement, and a generator, and maintain an emergency kit updated for extended power outages.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Beaufort County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Beaufort County
Risk Verdict
At the 88th percentile nationally, Beaufort 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 Beaufort County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Beaufort County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 97th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 82th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include tornado (75th percentile), wildfire (66th percentile), earthquake (48th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With hurricane ranked at the 97th percentile nationally, Beaufort County sits in a zone where multi-day supply readiness matters: grid outages after landfalling storms can last one to three weeks in heavily affected areas. Flood at the 82th percentile nationally is Beaufort County's secondary hazard, often intensified by the same weather systems that produce hurricane conditions. Insurance gaps are the most common post-hurricane financial shock: standard homeowners policies typically exclude flood damage and may have a separate wind deductible. Beaufort County households benefit from a pre-season insurance review confirming both wind and flood coverage.
Regional Context
The North Carolina county average is 21.4 composite points below Beaufort County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Beaufort County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Beaufort County, NC?
What types of natural hazards affect Beaufort County?
How does Beaufort County risk compare to the North Carolina average?
Is Beaufort County at risk for hurricane?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Beaufort 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.