Marion County Disaster Risk
Marion County, South Carolina
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
81th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#21
of 46 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
56th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 56% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 69% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 75% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 80% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively High
Higher than 95% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Marion County, South Carolina
Marion ranks above average for disaster risk
Marion County scores 80.69 on the national composite risk scale, placing it in the relatively low risk category but notably above South Carolina's average of 70.75. This means Marion faces greater exposure to natural hazards than most of its state neighbors, driven primarily by hurricane vulnerability.
Marion is the 2nd riskiest county in SC
Among South Carolina's 46 counties, Marion ranks second-highest for overall disaster risk, trailing only Richland County. This elevated ranking reflects the county's significant hurricane exposure and above-average flood and wildfire risks.
Marion's risk far exceeds nearby counties
Marion's composite score of 80.69 substantially outpaces neighboring Marlboro County (57.47) and McCormick County (9.54), which rank among the state's safest. Marion's hurricane risk of 94.79 is its defining vulnerability—nearly 20 points higher than Marlboro's neighboring profile.
Hurricanes and earthquakes dominate Marion's threats
Marion's hurricane risk score of 94.79 is the county's most acute hazard, with tropical systems posing direct threats to lives and property throughout the year. Earthquake risk (80.03) and tornado risk (74.97) also merit serious preparation, creating a triple threat that demands comprehensive disaster readiness.
Flood and wind insurance are critical here
Marion residents should prioritize flood insurance, as the county scores 55.50 for flood risk—well above many peers. Given the 94.79 hurricane risk score, securing robust wind and coastal hazard coverage is equally essential for protecting homes and financial stability.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Marion County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Marion County
Risk Verdict
With a national percentile rank of 81th, Marion 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; Marion County residents should plan accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Marion County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 95th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 80th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include tornado (75th percentile), wildfire (69th percentile), flood (56th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 95th percentile nationally for hurricane exposure, Marion County households benefit from reviewing both homeowners and flood insurance coverage before storm season begins — standard policies often exclude storm surge, which is the leading cause of hurricane fatalities. Marion County's earthquake exposure at the 80th percentile nationally adds a hazard layer that can persist or intensify after hurricane-force winds have passed, particularly in low-lying inland areas. Hurricane-force winds cause direct property damage, but storm surge causes the majority of hurricane-related deaths. Marion County households near tidal water or low-elevation areas should verify whether they are in a storm surge risk zone.
Regional Context
At 9.9 points above the South Carolina state average, Marion County carries meaningfully higher natural disaster exposure than a typical South Carolina county.
Is your household prepared for Marion County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Marion County, SC?
What types of natural hazards affect Marion County?
How does Marion County risk compare to the South Carolina average?
Is Marion County at risk for hurricane?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Marion 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.