Haywood County Disaster Risk
Haywood County, North Carolina
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
77th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#38
of 100 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
84th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 84% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 59% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 58% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 72% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 58% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Haywood County, North Carolina
Haywood's risk slightly exceeds national norm
Haywood County's composite score of 77.19 places it marginally above the national average with a Relatively Low overall rating. While not exceptionally hazardous, the county's mountain setting introduces distinct flood and earthquake considerations.
Below-average risk for North Carolina
Haywood scores 77.19 against the state average of 66.72, ranking it in the lower-to-middle tier of North Carolina's 100 counties. The county faces more moderate exposure compared to the state's highest-risk regions.
Risk varies across mountain region
Haywood (77.19) sits between Henderson County (83.78) to the south and lower-risk western mountain counties. The variation reflects different topography and proximity to hazard zones within the Appalachian region.
Flash flooding threatens mountain communities
Haywood's flood risk score of 83.56 is the primary concern, driven by steep terrain and rapid runoff during heavy rain. Earthquake risk (71.82) and wildfire risk (58.75) present secondary but meaningful threats to residents.
Flood insurance critical for Haywood residents
With flood risk at 83.56, standard homeowners insurance is insufficient; securing a separate flood policy is essential for mountain and valley properties. Consider structural improvements like elevated utilities and reinforced drainage around your home.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Haywood County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Haywood County
Risk Verdict
With a national percentile rank of 77th, Haywood County faces below-average hazard exposure relative to U.S. counties as a whole. Proactive preparedness — not reactive response — is key to managing life in one of the country's higher-risk counties; Haywood County residents should plan accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Haywood County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 84th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 72th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (59th percentile), hurricane (58th percentile), tornado (58th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With flood risk ranking at the 84th percentile nationally, Haywood County residents face one of the most financially damaging hazards without specialized coverage. Flood insurance through the NFIP or a private carrier is worth evaluating regardless of current mortgage requirements. The county's second-ranked hazard, earthquake at the 72th percentile nationally, means Haywood County residents face compounding risks from multiple natural hazard types during peak seasons. Registering for Haywood County's county emergency alert system — typically through the county emergency management office's website — ensures households receive early warning when flood events develop faster than forecast.
Regional Context
At 10.5 points above the North Carolina state average, Haywood County carries meaningfully higher natural disaster exposure than a typical North Carolina county.
Is your household prepared for Haywood County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Haywood County, NC?
What types of natural hazards affect Haywood County?
How does Haywood County risk compare to the North Carolina average?
Is Haywood County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Haywood 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.