Hopewell city Disaster Risk
Hopewell city, Virginia
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
17th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#87
of 133 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
49th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 49% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 3% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 33% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 64% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 76% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Hopewell city, Virginia
Hopewell Ranks Among Nation's Safest Areas
With a composite risk score of 17.24, Hopewell city ranks as very low risk and sits well below the national average. This score reflects favorable conditions that minimize exposure to multiple natural hazard types.
Among Virginia's Lowest-Risk Communities
Hopewell's 17.24 score falls substantially below Virginia's state average of 33.27, positioning the city in the lower tier of risk statewide. Only Highland County (2.51) demonstrates greater safety among Virginia jurisdictions.
Safer Than Most Nearby Counties
Hopewell (17.24) enjoys notably lower risk than Hanover (53.50), Henry (63.61), and Henrico (83.40) counties that surround it. The city's compact footprint and inland location contribute to this favorable risk profile.
Hurricane and Flood Risks Remain Present
Despite overall low risk, Hopewell registers hurricane exposure at 75.55 and flood risk at 48.60, reflecting coastal Atlantic influences and James River proximity. These two hazards account for most of the city's measured risk.
Add Flood Insurance for Complete Protection
Your standard homeowners policy covers most Hopewell properties well, but flood insurance deserves consideration given the city's 48.60 flood score and James River location. Otherwise, basic coverage typically proves sufficient.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Hopewell city
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Hopewell city
Risk Verdict
Hopewell city's overall natural disaster score at the 17th percentile puts it well below the national median for hazard exposure. Hopewell city's lower-than-average risk profile at the 17th percentile makes it a more manageable preparedness environment, but a reviewed household plan remains the right foundation regardless.
Hazard Breakdown
Hurricane risk is Hopewell city's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 76th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 64th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (49th percentile), tornado (33th percentile), wildfire (3th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Hurricane exposure at the 76th percentile nationally makes Hopewell city a county where pre-season preparedness — not storm-day preparation — determines outcomes. Hopewell city evacuation decisions under a watch or warning benefit from prior planning, not routes improvised under time pressure. Hopewell city's secondary earthquake risk at the 64th percentile nationally reinforces the value of a multi-hazard household plan rather than one focused exclusively on hurricane preparation. Hopewell city residents benefit from registering with the county's special-needs evacuation registry if household members have mobility limitations, require electricity-dependent medical equipment, or cannot self-evacuate — registration in advance of storm season is required.
Regional Context
Hopewell city's composite risk score sits 16.0 points below the Virginia county average, reflecting a more favorable hazard environment than the state typical.
Is your household prepared for Hopewell city's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.