Westmoreland County Disaster Risk
Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
88th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#15
of 67 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
94th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 94% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 54% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 56% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 74% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 69% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania
Westmoreland faces above-average disaster risk
With a composite risk score of 87.85, Westmoreland County ranks in the relatively moderate category—significantly higher than the national average of around 50. This score reflects exposure to multiple hazards, particularly flooding, which poses an outsized threat to the region.
Among Pennsylvania's most at-risk counties
Westmoreland's score of 87.85 substantially exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, placing it in the upper tier of county risk statewide. The county's flood risk score of 93.77 is particularly concerning relative to peers.
Westmoreland stands out in Southwest PA
Compared to nearby Wyoming County (44.78 composite score), Westmoreland faces nearly double the overall risk. York County to the southeast poses similarly elevated threat levels at 90.43, making both counties regional hotspots for natural disaster preparedness.
Flooding and earthquakes dominate local hazards
Flood risk scores 93.77 for Westmoreland—among the highest in the state—driven by vulnerable watershed infrastructure and aging stormwater systems. Earthquake risk at 73.76 and hurricane risk at 69.00 also warrant preparation, particularly for older building stock in the region.
Get covered against Westmoreland's top threats
Homeowners should prioritize flood insurance immediately, as standard policies exclude flood damage and coverage sells out during seasons of elevated risk. Consider seismic reinforcement for older homes and ensure hurricane preparedness—together, these hazards affect substantial portions of county residents.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Westmoreland County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Westmoreland County
Risk Verdict
FEMA's National Risk Index rates Westmoreland County at the 88th percentile nationally — above average and worth proactive preparation. Residents should prioritize a formal household emergency plan, including evacuation routes, insurance review, and a well-stocked emergency kit.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Westmoreland County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 94th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 74th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include hurricane (69th percentile), tornado (56th percentile), wildfire (54th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Flood risk is Westmoreland County's top hazard at the 94th percentile nationally. Households in or near designated flood zones face elevated financial exposure; flood insurance typically requires a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect, so applying before the season is advisable. Alongside flooding, earthquake exposure at the 74th percentile means households benefit from a multi-hazard preparedness plan rather than focusing on flood alone. Households across Westmoreland County should identify the nearest community shelter and keep a basic emergency kit — water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlight, and battery radio — in a location easy to grab quickly.
Regional Context
Westmoreland County is 20.4 composite risk points above the Pennsylvania average, indicating that residents face greater natural hazard exposure than most of their in-state neighbors.
Is your household prepared for Westmoreland County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Westmoreland County, PA?
What types of natural hazards affect Westmoreland County?
How does Westmoreland County risk compare to the Pennsylvania average?
Is Westmoreland County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Westmoreland 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.