Armstrong County Disaster Risk
Armstrong County, Pennsylvania
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
69th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#33
of 67 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
85th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 85% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 34% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 35% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 52% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania
Armstrong County Carries Moderate, Manageable Risk
Armstrong County's composite risk score of 69.34 sits slightly above the national average, earning a relatively low risk rating. While the county does face natural disaster exposure, it ranks among safer regions nationwide and benefits from comparatively low wildfire and tornado threats.
Below-Average Risk Within Pennsylvania
Armstrong County's score of 69.34 exceeds Pennsylvania's 67.45 statewide average by less than 3 points, placing it firmly in the lower-risk half of the state's counties. The county ranks well below more hazardous regions like Allegheny (98.09) or Berks (92.72).
Similar Risk Profile to Central PA Peers
Armstrong County compares closely to neighboring Indiana County and other central Pennsylvania rural communities, all facing relatively low composite risks. Adjacent Butler County experiences slightly higher exposure, while Armstrong residents enjoy lower risks than western urban areas.
Flooding and Hurricanes Drive Exposure
Flood risk ranks highest in Armstrong County at 85.05, reflecting vulnerability to runoff and stream systems across the region. Hurricane risk (52.23) presents a secondary concern, though wildfire (21.98) and tornado (34.16) risks remain manageable compared to state averages.
Prioritize Flood Coverage in Lower-Risk County
Armstrong County residents should secure flood insurance given the 85.05 flood risk, particularly in low-lying and river-adjacent properties. A standard homeowners policy provides adequate tornado and wind protection for most residents, making Armstrong an insurable county without extraordinary premiums.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Armstrong County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Armstrong County
Risk Verdict
At the 69th percentile nationally, Armstrong County experiences a manageable level of natural hazard risk that falls below the U.S. median. Armstrong County's risk profile calls for targeted preparedness, focusing on the hazard categories that dominate the county's score.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Armstrong County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 85th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane ranks second at the 52th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (35th percentile), tornado (34th percentile), wildfire (22th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Armstrong County's dominant hazard is flooding, ranked at the 85th percentile nationally. In addition to flood insurance, residents should identify their nearest evacuation shelter and store key documents in waterproof containers. Secondary hurricane exposure at the 52th percentile adds a second preparedness layer; households should review coverage options and alert sign-up for both hazard types. Armstrong County's county emergency management office publishes hazard-specific guidance tailored to local conditions; bookmarking that resource and the county's alert system is a practical first step for any household.
Regional Context
At 1.9 points from the Pennsylvania county mean, Armstrong County's overall disaster risk profile is close to typical for this state, with no dramatic deviation in either direction.
Is your household prepared for Armstrong County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Armstrong County, PA?
What types of natural hazards affect Armstrong County?
How does Armstrong County risk compare to the Pennsylvania average?
Is Armstrong County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Armstrong 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.