Stokes County Disaster Risk
Stokes County, North Carolina
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
40th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#87
of 100 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
58th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 58% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 16% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 36% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 53% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 69% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Stokes County, North Carolina
Stokes County has the lowest disaster risk statewide
With a composite risk score of 39.73, Stokes County carries a very low risk rating—among the safest communities in North Carolina and well below the national average. The county's minimal wildfire (16.09) and tornado (35.94) risks are defining strengths.
Stokes ranks as North Carolina's lowest-risk county
Stokes' 39.73 score sits dramatically below the state average of 66.72, making it one of North Carolina's safest communities for natural disasters. Wildfire risk (16.09) is exceptionally low compared to state peers, a rare advantage in the Piedmont.
Stokes offers exceptional safety compared to neighbors
Stokes' 39.73 score is substantially lower than neighboring Surry (73.57), Transylvania (64.25), and Rutherford (72.68), offering residents significantly lower disaster exposure. The county's northwestern location and terrain provide natural protection against multiple hazard types.
Hurricane risk is Stokes' primary concern
Hurricane risk (68.71) is Stokes' highest hazard score, followed by flood risk (57.98) and earthquake risk (53.18)—all moderate by state standards. Tornado (35.94) and wildfire (16.09) risks are exceptionally low, providing meaningful relief compared to surrounding counties.
Standard coverage suffices for Stokes residents
Stokes County residents benefit from exceptionally low disaster risk, so standard homeowners insurance with basic wind coverage typically provides adequate protection. That said, those in mapped flood zones should still consider flood insurance, as Stokes' 39.73 composite risk remains modestly above zero.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Stokes County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Stokes County
Risk Verdict
Natural disaster exposure in Stokes County is lower than roughly three-quarters of U.S. counties, with a composite score at the 40th percentile. At the 40th percentile nationally, Stokes County's natural hazard profile is comparatively favorable — community resilience is reinforced when individual households maintain a reviewed emergency plan.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Stokes County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 69th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 58th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (53th percentile), tornado (36th percentile), wildfire (16th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 69th percentile nationally for hurricane risk, Stokes County is in a zone where flood insurance matters beyond the primary wind risk: NFIP flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period before taking effect, making off-season enrollment the correct timing. Flood at the 58th percentile nationally is Stokes County's secondary hazard, often intensified by the same weather systems that produce hurricane conditions. For Stokes County households, the hurricane preparedness calendar matters: flood insurance has a 30-day waiting period, wind-hardening retrofits take weeks to schedule, and evacuation route scouting is best done before a storm watch is issued.
Regional Context
Stokes County is 27.0 composite risk points below the North Carolina state mean, meaning most other North Carolina counties face higher natural hazard exposure.
Is your household prepared for Stokes County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Stokes County, NC?
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How does Stokes County risk compare to the North Carolina average?
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Is Stokes 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.