Montgomery County Disaster Risk
Montgomery County, Ohio
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
93th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#4
of 88 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
96th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively High
Higher than 96% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 44% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 93% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 91% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 49% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Montgomery County, Ohio
Montgomery ranks well above average
Montgomery County's composite risk score of 92.65 places it in the "Relatively Moderate" category—significantly higher than the U.S. average. This means residents face greater exposure to multiple hazards compared to most American counties, particularly from flooding and tornadoes.
The highest-risk county in Ohio
Montgomery County's composite score of 92.65 far exceeds Ohio's state average of 55.03, making it the state's most disaster-prone county by a substantial margin. This elevated risk reflects the county's vulnerability across multiple hazard types, particularly floods and tornadoes.
Significantly riskier than surrounding areas
Montgomery County's 92.65 score dwarfs neighboring Muskingum County (70.93) and Ottawa County (59.16), both of which also exceed the state average but remain far safer. This concentration of risk makes Montgomery County a regional outlier for disaster preparedness.
Floods and tornadoes dominate locally
Flood risk scores 95.52, the county's highest hazard rating and a critical concern for residents near waterways and low-lying areas. Tornado risk ranks nearly as high at 92.62, making severe weather response and shelter planning essential year-round preparations.
Flood and wind insurance essential here
With flood and tornado risks both exceeding 90, standard homeowners insurance alone is insufficient—flooding is typically excluded from standard policies. Residents should secure separate flood insurance and verify windstorm coverage, then review and update policies annually given the county's persistent dual threats.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Montgomery County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Montgomery County
Risk Verdict
At the 93th percentile nationally, Montgomery 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 Montgomery County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Montgomery County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 96th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 93th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (91th percentile), hurricane (49th percentile), wildfire (44th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 96th percentile nationally for flood risk, Montgomery County residents benefit from understanding their specific flood zone status. Even one inch of floodwater causes significant structural damage to properties outside officially designated high-risk zones. Secondary tornado exposure at the 93th percentile adds a second preparedness layer; households should review coverage options and alert sign-up for both hazard types. A tested family preparedness plan specific to Montgomery County's primary hazards — including how to shelter in place or evacuate, and who to call — provides more real protection than a general emergency kit sitting unused on a shelf.
Regional Context
The Ohio county average is 37.6 composite points below Montgomery County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Montgomery County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Montgomery County, OH?
What types of natural hazards affect Montgomery County?
How does Montgomery County risk compare to the Ohio average?
Is Montgomery County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Montgomery 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.