Williamsburg County Disaster Risk
Williamsburg County, South Carolina
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
82th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#19
of 46 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
60th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 60% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Moderate
Higher than 87% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 44% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 92% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively High
Higher than 95% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Williamsburg County, South Carolina
Williamsburg faces above-average national disaster risks
Williamsburg County's composite risk score of 82.06 places it in the "Relatively Moderate" category, above the national average. The county's risk profile reflects heightened vulnerability to hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires.
Among the highest-risk counties in South Carolina
At 82.06, Williamsburg's score exceeds the state average of 70.75 by more than 11 points, placing it among the upper tier of South Carolina counties by disaster risk. Only a few counties statewide face comparable overall exposure.
Riskier than most neighboring counties
Williamsburg's 82.06 risk score significantly outpaces nearby communities, reflecting the county's unique vulnerability profile. The county's coastal-adjacent geography and wildfire exposure set it apart from inland upstate peers.
Hurricanes and wildfires dominate Williamsburg hazards
Hurricane risk (95.16) is Williamsburg's top hazard—among the highest in the state—followed by earthquake risk (91.79) and wildfire risk (87.25). These three hazards alone account for the county's significantly elevated risk profile.
Williamsburg residents need comprehensive coverage
Hurricane and wind/hail insurance are essential in Williamsburg, where the county's 95.16 hurricane risk is among South Carolina's highest. Earthquake coverage and wildfire considerations should complement standard homeowners policies for complete protection.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Williamsburg County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Williamsburg County
Risk Verdict
Williamsburg County's overall risk score at the 82th percentile nationally signals meaningful exposure to multiple natural hazard types. Comprehensive household preparedness — including reviewing insurance, maintaining emergency supplies, and knowing evacuation routes — is strongly recommended.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Williamsburg County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 95th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 92th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (87th percentile), flood (60th percentile), tornado (44th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Williamsburg County ranks at the 95th percentile nationally for hurricane risk. For coastal counties, wind-resistant shutters or impact-rated windows represent the highest single structural investment for reducing property damage. Earthquake at the 92th percentile nationally is Williamsburg County's secondary hazard, often intensified by the same weather systems that produce hurricane conditions. For extended post-storm outages common in Williamsburg County's hurricane zone, a portable generator (operated outdoors only) and a supply of non-perishable food for at least seven days provides meaningful household resilience.
Regional Context
Compared to other South Carolina counties, Williamsburg County runs 11.3 composite risk points higher than the state mean — reflecting above-average hazard concentration in this area.
Is your household prepared for Williamsburg County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Williamsburg County, SC?
What types of natural hazards affect Williamsburg County?
How does Williamsburg County risk compare to the South Carolina average?
Is Williamsburg County at risk for hurricane?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Williamsburg 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.