Jackson County Disaster Risk
Jackson County, Oklahoma
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
86th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#5
of 77 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
25th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 25% 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 70% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 42% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 25% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Jackson County, Oklahoma
Jackson County faces moderate disaster risk
With a composite risk score of 86.04, Jackson County ranks as relatively moderate—significantly higher than the nation's average and well above Oklahoma's state average of 55.47. This elevated risk reflects exposure to multiple natural hazard types that residents should understand and prepare for.
Among Oklahoma's riskiest counties
Jackson County ranks among the higher-risk counties statewide, with its 86.04 composite score placing it well above the state average. The county's exposure to tornadoes and wildfires drives much of this elevated standing within Oklahoma.
Higher risk than neighboring counties
Jackson County's risk score of 86.04 substantially exceeds nearby Kiowa County (35.78) and Harmon County to the south. This makes Jackson County one of the more hazard-exposed areas in its region, warranting greater preparedness.
Tornadoes and wildfires dominate
Tornado risk peaks at 69.94—well above average—while wildfire risk reaches 65.94, making these the two primary natural hazards residents face. Flooding risk (25.10) and earthquake risk (41.92) are secondary concerns but still warrant basic preparedness.
Secure comprehensive hazard coverage now
Homeowners should prioritize tornado and wind damage coverage through standard homeowners policies, then layer wildfire and flood insurance where available. Given Jackson County's multi-hazard exposure, a conversation with an insurance agent about gaps in coverage could save thousands in recovery costs.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Jackson County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Jackson County
Risk Verdict
At the 86th percentile nationally, Jackson 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 Jackson County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Jackson County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 70th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Wildfire ranks second at the 66th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (42th percentile), hurricane (25th percentile), flood (25th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado exposure at the 70th percentile nationally makes Jackson County a county where a battery-powered weather radio — not just smartphone apps — is a worthwhile household investment, given that mobile networks often fail during severe storms. The secondary wildfire hazard at the 66th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Jackson County's preparedness calendar, since wildfire and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. In Jackson County, tornado watches indicate favorable atmospheric conditions while warnings mean rotation has been detected — households benefit from understanding this distinction so they shelter immediately on a warning, not after seeking visual confirmation.
Regional Context
The Oklahoma county average is 30.6 composite points below Jackson County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Jackson County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Jackson County, OK?
What types of natural hazards affect Jackson County?
How does Jackson County risk compare to the Oklahoma average?
Is Jackson County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Jackson 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.