Lycoming County Disaster Risk
Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
80th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#23
of 67 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
89th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 89% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 27% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 50% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 48% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 75% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
Lycoming's risk sits above the nation
With a composite risk score of 79.58, Lycoming County faces above-average natural disaster exposure compared to U.S. counties overall. The county earned a "Relatively Low" risk rating, meaning its hazards are manageable with proper preparation. However, residents should understand that this score still reflects meaningful flood and hurricane vulnerabilities.
Above average for Pennsylvania
Lycoming's risk score of 79.58 exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, placing it among the state's higher-risk counties. This elevated ranking reflects the county's significant flood exposure, which scores 88.99 statewide. Despite ranking above peers, Lycoming's "Relatively Low" rating indicates manageable risk with proper preparation.
Riskier than nearby counties
Lycoming County's risk score of 79.58 exceeds neighboring Mifflin County (69.27) and significantly outpaces McKean County (53.78) to the north. Within the region, only Monroe County (85.08) and Northampton County (90.01) face comparable or greater disaster exposure. Lycoming residents benefit from proximity to lower-risk areas but should recognize their higher vulnerability relative to neighboring counties.
Flood and hurricane threats dominate
Flooding poses Lycoming's most significant hazard, with a risk score of 88.99—the county's highest and well above state average. Hurricane exposure ranks second at 75.05, reflecting the region's vulnerability to tropical systems tracking inland from the Atlantic. Together, these water-related hazards account for the majority of the county's overall composite risk.
Flood insurance is essential here
Lycoming County's flood risk score of 88.99 makes comprehensive flood insurance critical—standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. Review your property's elevation and proximity to the Susquehanna River and its tributaries; even moderate rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems. Consider also fortifying your roof and securing outdoor items ahead of hurricane season.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Lycoming County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Lycoming County
Risk Verdict
Lycoming County's FEMA risk score places it at the 80th percentile nationally, indicating lower-than-typical exposure for a U.S. county. At this risk level, having a documented household preparedness plan — not just awareness — is the meaningful next step for Lycoming County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Lycoming County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 89th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane ranks second at the 75th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include tornado (50th percentile), earthquake (48th percentile), wildfire (27th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 89th percentile nationally for flood risk, Lycoming 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. Alongside flooding, hurricane exposure at the 75th percentile means households benefit from a multi-hazard preparedness plan rather than focusing on flood alone. A tested family preparedness plan specific to Lycoming 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 Pennsylvania county average is 12.1 composite points below Lycoming County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Lycoming County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Lycoming County, PA?
What types of natural hazards affect Lycoming County?
How does Lycoming County risk compare to the Pennsylvania average?
Is Lycoming County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Lycoming 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.