Franklin County Disaster Risk
Franklin County, Vermont
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
29th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#9
of 14 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
52th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 52% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 13% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 15% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 60% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 59% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Franklin County, Vermont
Franklin maintains well-below-average risk
Franklin County's composite risk score of 29.20 with a "Very Low" rating places it comfortably below the national average. Its position in northwestern Vermont provides natural protection against most major hazard types.
Third-safest county in Vermont
Franklin County ranks third from the bottom statewide with a score of 29.20, well below Vermont's average of 36.44. Only Essex County (3.21) and Grand Isle County (1.91) register lower overall risk.
Comparable safety to Addison County
Franklin County's risk profile aligns closely with Addison County (26.78), positioning both as relatively safe communities in western Vermont. The county's modest flood risk (52.10) reflects its distance from major river systems.
Earthquakes and hurricanes lead concerns
Franklin County's primary hazard exposures come from earthquake risk (60.05) and hurricane risk (59.12), both moderately elevated for the region. Flood risk (52.10) presents a secondary but manageable concern along river valleys.
Standard coverage with flood consideration
Franklin County residents should maintain comprehensive homeowners insurance with particular attention to wind and hail coverage. Those in mapped flood zones or near river valleys should consider NFIP flood insurance as a prudent addition.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Franklin County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Franklin County
Risk Verdict
Franklin County's overall natural disaster score at the 29th percentile puts it well below the national median for hazard exposure. The 29th percentile national ranking is one lens; Franklin County residents also benefit from reviewing which specific hazard types drive the county's composite score and preparing accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Franklin County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 60th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane ranks second at the 59th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (52th percentile), tornado (15th percentile), wildfire (13th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake exposure at the 60th percentile nationally puts Franklin County in a zone where utilities — gas, water, electrical — are the most common post-quake hazard. Knowing how to shut off the main gas valve is an important household skill to develop before an event occurs. The county's hurricane risk at the 59th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Franklin County households benefit from keeping shoes and a flashlight near the bed — post-earthquake navigation through debris in the dark is a common cause of secondary injury. This low-cost step has outsized protective value.
Regional Context
Franklin County's composite risk score sits 7.2 points below the Vermont county average, reflecting a more favorable hazard environment than the state typical.
Is your household prepared for Franklin County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Franklin County, VT?
What types of natural hazards affect Franklin County?
How does Franklin County risk compare to the Vermont average?
Is Franklin County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Franklin County a safe place to live?
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.