Grant County Disaster Risk
Grant County, Washington
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
77th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#22
of 39 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
77th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 77% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively High
Higher than 96% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 15% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 89% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Grant County, Washington
Grant County's Natural Disaster Risk
Grant County scores 76.94 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating and exceeding Washington's state average of 70.01. The county faces elevated but manageable exposure to natural hazards, particularly from seismic and fire threats.
Where Grant Ranks in Washington
Grant County ranks in the upper-middle tier among Washington's 39 counties for natural disaster risk, with a score of 76.94 that places it above the state average. The county's risk is driven by particularly high earthquake and wildfire exposure relative to state norms.
Compared to Your Neighbors
Grant County's risk (76.94) exceeds most regional peers, including Douglas (74.08) and Franklin (72.49), but remains lower than coastal Grays Harbor (97.0). The county's earthquake exposure at 89.22 is among the state's highest, reflecting proximity to active geological zones.
Your Top Threats: Earthquake and Wildfire
Earthquake risk ranks highest at 89.22—among Washington's most acute seismic exposures—while wildfire risk at 95.83 creates critical fire season vulnerability. Flood exposure at 77.19 reflects irrigation infrastructure and river systems, though tornado risk remains low at 15.46.
Earthquake and Fire Insurance Essential
Grant County residents should prioritize earthquake insurance through state pooling mechanisms and ensure wildfire coverage is included in homeowners policies. Secure structures to foundations and maintain defensible space, especially in rural and agricultural areas.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Grant County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Grant County
Risk Verdict
Grant County has a below-average natural disaster risk profile, scoring at the 77th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. 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
Wildfire risk is Grant County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 96th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 89th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (77th percentile), tornado (15th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Wildfire is Grant County's top-ranked natural hazard at the 96th percentile nationally. Grant County residents should assess whether their property lies within or adjacent to a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zone, where ember transport and rapid spread pose the highest risk. Alongside wildfire, earthquake at the 89th percentile nationally means a multi-season preparedness mindset — fire season and flood or storm season often require different household plans. For Grant County households, a practiced evacuation plan — with a primary and backup route designated before a fire occurs — provides more protection than any structural improvement when a wildfire approaches fast-moving terrain.
Regional Context
Grant County's composite risk score sits 6.9 points above the Washington county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Grant County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Grant County, WA?
What types of natural hazards affect Grant County?
How does Grant County risk compare to the Washington average?
Is Grant County at risk for wildfire?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Grant 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.