Augusta County Disaster Risk
Augusta County, Virginia
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
69th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#15
of 133 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
80th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 80% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 72% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 34% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 71% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 79% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Augusta County, Virginia
Augusta faces above-average disaster risk nationally
Augusta County's composite risk score of 68.61 places it well above the national average, earning a 'Relatively Low' rating overall. However, this score masks significant variability—the county faces substantially elevated risks for specific hazards like hurricanes (79.22) and floods (80.18). Understanding these localized threats is key to preparing your community and home.
Among Virginia's riskiest counties
Augusta ranks significantly higher than Virginia's state average composite risk of 33.27, making it one of the state's more hazard-prone counties. This elevated standing reflects particular vulnerability to water-related disasters and seismic activity. Your location in the state places you in a higher-risk category than most Virginia residents.
Augusta's risks dwarf nearby counties
Neighboring Bath County (5.38) and Bland County (13.04) face dramatically lower composite risks, while Bedford County (51.18) and Buchanan County (50.60) approach Augusta's threat level. Augusta's flood risk of 80.18 is particularly notable—roughly twice Bath's exposure. If you're comparing neighborhoods or considering relocation, these differences are substantial.
Floods and hurricanes pose greatest threat
Flood risk dominates at 80.18—among the highest in the state—while hurricane risk stands at 79.22, reflecting Augusta's vulnerability to tropical systems and water accumulation. Wildfire risk (72.01) and earthquake risk (70.61) round out a concerning profile. These aren't hypothetical: flooding events regularly impact infrastructure and property in this region.
Flood insurance is essential here
Given your flood risk score of 80.18, flood insurance should be a priority whether or not your home is in a mapped floodplain—standard homeowners policies don't cover flood damage. Consider earthquake insurance as well (70.61 risk score), and ensure your coverage keeps pace with rebuilding costs. Speak with a local insurance agent who understands Augusta-specific hazards.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Augusta County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Augusta County
Risk Verdict
Augusta County sits below the national average for natural disaster exposure, ranking at the 69th percentile across all U.S. counties. Understanding the specific hazards behind Augusta County's ranking helps residents prioritize where to direct emergency planning efforts.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Augusta County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 80th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane ranks second at the 79th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (72th percentile), earthquake (71th percentile), tornado (34th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With flood ranked as the primary hazard at the 80th percentile nationally, Augusta County households should build a go-bag that includes important documents, medications, and supplies to sustain the family for at least three days if evacuation is needed. Alongside flooding, hurricane exposure at the 79th percentile means households benefit from a multi-hazard preparedness plan rather than focusing on flood alone. A waterproof container for documents (insurance policies, ID, prescriptions) and a clear household communication plan for when phone networks are congested are the two highest-value low-cost preparedness steps for Augusta County households.
Regional Context
A composite score 35.3 points above the Virginia state average puts Augusta County in a higher-risk category than most counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Augusta County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Augusta County, VA?
What types of natural hazards affect Augusta County?
How does Augusta County risk compare to the Virginia average?
Is Augusta County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Augusta 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.