Mercer County Disaster Risk
Mercer County, Pennsylvania
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
78th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#26
of 67 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
88th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 88% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 36% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 55% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 52% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 65% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Mercer County, Pennsylvania
Mercer's risk exceeds national norms
With a composite risk score of 77.74, Mercer County faces above-average natural disaster exposure compared to typical U.S. counties. The county's "Relatively Low" rating indicates that while hazards are present, they remain manageable with appropriate preparation. Residents should prioritize protections for the hazards that score highest.
Above average for Pennsylvania
Mercer County's risk score of 77.74 exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, placing it among the state's more vulnerable counties. The county's flood (87.88) and tornado (55.34) exposures drive much of this elevated ranking. Despite above-average risk, Mercer maintains a "Relatively Low" rating, meaning hazards are significant but not extreme.
Comparable risk to nearby counties
Mercer County's score of 77.74 is close to Lycoming County (79.58) and significantly higher than McKean County (53.78) to the east. It trails Monroe County (85.08) and Northampton County (90.01) but substantially exceeds Montour County (14.66). Mercer residents face similar challenge levels to those in Lycoming but greater safety than the state's highest-risk counties.
Flooding and tornadoes pose risks
Mercer County's flood risk score of 87.88 represents the county's most serious hazard—among the highest in Pennsylvania. Tornado exposure ranks second at 55.34, making severe thunderstorms a genuine seasonal concern. Wildfire risk is moderate at 36.35, adding another consideration for property owners in forested areas.
Prepare for flooding and storms
Flood insurance is essential in Mercer County given its 87.88 risk score; standard homeowners coverage excludes flood damage entirely. Install a safe room or underground shelter to protect your family during tornado season, typically spring and early summer. Maintain trees around your home to reduce wind damage risk during severe thunderstorms.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Mercer County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Mercer County
Risk Verdict
With a national percentile rank of 78th, Mercer County faces below-average hazard exposure relative to U.S. counties as a whole. Proactive preparedness — not reactive response — is key to managing life in one of the country's higher-risk counties; Mercer County residents should plan accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Mercer County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 88th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane ranks second at the 65th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include tornado (55th percentile), earthquake (52th percentile), wildfire (36th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With flood risk ranking at the 88th percentile nationally, Mercer County residents face one of the most financially damaging hazards without specialized coverage. Flood insurance through the NFIP or a private carrier is worth evaluating regardless of current mortgage requirements. The county's second-ranked hazard, hurricane at the 65th percentile nationally, means Mercer County residents face compounding risks from multiple natural hazard types during peak seasons. Registering for Mercer County's county emergency alert system — typically through the county emergency management office's website — ensures households receive early warning when flood events develop faster than forecast.
Regional Context
At 10.3 points above the Pennsylvania state average, Mercer County carries meaningfully higher natural disaster exposure than a typical Pennsylvania county.
Is your household prepared for Mercer County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Mercer County, PA?
What types of natural hazards affect Mercer County?
How does Mercer County risk compare to the Pennsylvania average?
Is Mercer County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Mercer 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.