Greene County Disaster Risk
Greene County, Tennessee
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
56th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#48
of 95 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
64th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 64% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 45% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 62% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 84% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 49% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Greene County, Tennessee
Greene County faces near-average national risk
Greene County's composite risk score of 56.30 places it in the Relatively Low category, near the national average for many counties. The county contends with meaningful exposure to flood and earthquake hazards despite moderate tornado and wildfire risks.
Slightly below Tennessee's average risk
Greene County's 56.30 score sits just below Tennessee's state average of 52.45, positioning it as a moderate-risk county within the state. Its flood risk (63.55) and earthquake risk (84.22) pull the overall score upward, while wildfire risk remains moderate at 45.04.
Comparable to Hamblen, safer than adjacent areas
Greene County's 56.30 score closely resembles Hamblen County (47.11) to the south and exceeds Cocke County's typical profile. Its risk level is representative of Northeast Tennessee's mixed hazard exposure, with particular vulnerability to seismic activity and flooding.
Earthquakes and floods pose greatest threats
Earthquake risk (84.22) ranks highest, tied to Greene County's proximity to the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone and historic seismic activity in the region. Flood risk (63.55) ranks second, reflecting the county's terrain and susceptibility to heavy rainfall and stream overflow events.
Prioritize earthquake and flood insurance
Homeowners should verify that policies include earthquake coverage and ensure flood insurance is in place, especially for properties near rivers or floodplains. Given Greene County's moderate composite risk, comprehensive coverage addressing both seismic and water-related hazards provides essential protection.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Greene County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Greene County
Risk Verdict
At the 56th percentile nationally, Greene County experiences a manageable level of natural hazard risk that falls below the U.S. median. Greene County's risk profile calls for targeted preparedness, focusing on the hazard categories that dominate the county's score.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Greene County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 84th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 64th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include tornado (62th percentile), hurricane (49th percentile), wildfire (45th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Greene County's primary hazard, earthquake, ranks at the 84th percentile nationally. Unreinforced masonry structures carry the highest injury risk during seismic events; residents in older buildings should check with their municipality about available seismic retrofit programs. The county's flood risk at the 64th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. After a major earthquake, Greene County residents should expect water service disruption for 24 to 72 or more hours. Storing a minimum of one gallon per person per day for three days — before any event — is the most direct preparedness action households can take.
Regional Context
At 3.8 points from the Tennessee county mean, Greene County's overall disaster risk profile is close to typical for this state, with no dramatic deviation in either direction.
Is your household prepared for Greene County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Greene County, TN?
What types of natural hazards affect Greene County?
How does Greene County risk compare to the Tennessee average?
Is Greene County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Greene 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.