Ellis County Disaster Risk
Ellis County, Texas
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
82th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#46
of 254 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
83th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 83% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Moderate
Higher than 86% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 88% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 51% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 52% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Ellis County, Texas
Ellis County's Substantial Risk Exposure
Ellis County scores 81.62 on the national composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Moderate rating and placing it well above the U.S. average. This elevation reflects Ellis's exposure across multiple hazard categories, particularly flood, wildfire, and tornado risks. Residents face natural disaster exposure approximately 65% higher than typical American counties.
Among Texas's Highest-Risk Counties
At 81.62, Ellis County exceeds Texas's state average of 49.00 by 67%, ranking among the state's most hazard-exposed counties. Only a handful of Texas counties—notably El Paso (95.45) and Ector (82.82)—score higher in composite risk. Ellis residents occupy the upper tier of statewide natural disaster vulnerability.
Riskier Than Most Surrounding Counties
Ellis County's 81.62 significantly exceeds Erath County (75.00) and dramatically surpasses Edwards County (5.73) and Donley County (26.62). It ranks nearly identically to Ector County (82.82), making both counties statistical peers in terms of hazard exposure. This concentration reflects Ellis's North Texas location and proximity to flood-prone river corridors.
Flood, Wildfire, and Tornado Dominance
Ellis County's highest risks are flood (83.46), tornado (87.75), and wildfire (86.07)—all in the elevated range and reflecting North Texas's vulnerability to severe spring storms and water events. Hurricane risk at 52.19 adds a secondary concern, while earthquake exposure at 51.11 is moderate. These hazards collectively make Ellis one of Texas's most multi-hazard-exposed counties.
Multi-Hazard Insurance Essential
Ellis County residents must purchase separate flood insurance immediately, as the county's 83.46 flood risk score makes this non-negotiable and standard policies exclude it. Add tornado/hail riders and comprehensive wildfire coverage given those hazard scores near 87%. Review your policy limits annually and maintain a current home inventory for disaster recovery purposes.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Ellis County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Ellis County
Risk Verdict
Ellis County faces a moderate natural disaster risk profile, ranking at the 82th percentile nationally under FEMA's composite risk model. This risk level calls for more than general awareness: insurance coverage review, a family communication plan, and a prepared go-bag are practical priorities.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Ellis County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 88th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Wildfire ranks second at the 86th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (83th percentile), hurricane (52th percentile), earthquake (51th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado risk is Ellis County's top-ranked natural hazard at the 88th percentile nationally. For Ellis County households, the most protective action available is identifying a reinforced interior room on the lowest floor — a bathroom, closet, or central hallway away from windows. Alongside tornado exposure, wildfire at the 86th percentile nationally means Ellis County households face multi-hazard severe-weather seasons that benefit from a single integrated emergency plan covering both threats. A battery-powered NOAA All Hazards weather radio with an auto-alert tone is the highest-leverage single item for tornado preparedness in Ellis County, since it delivers warnings even when power is out and phone networks are congested.
Regional Context
Ellis County's composite risk score sits 32.6 points above the Texas county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Ellis County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Ellis County, TX?
What types of natural hazards affect Ellis County?
How does Ellis County risk compare to the Texas average?
Is Ellis County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Ellis 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.