Island County Disaster Risk
Island County, Washington
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
78th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#21
of 39 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
73th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 73% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 35% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 11% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively High
Higher than 96% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Island County, Washington
Island County's Natural Disaster Risk
Island County scores 77.99 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating but exceeding Washington's state average of 70.01. The county's island geography creates focused exposure to seismic and flood hazards despite lower wildfire risk.
Where Island Ranks in Washington
Island County ranks in the mid-to-upper range among Washington's 39 counties for natural disaster risk, with a score of 77.99. The county's risk profile is heavily shaped by its Puget Sound location and proximity to major fault systems.
Compared to Your Neighbors
Island County's risk (77.99) exceeds inland peer Grant County (76.94) but significantly trails coastal Grays Harbor County (96.98). Unlike Grays Harbor, Island County's lower wildfire risk (35.43) reflects marine climate influence, but earthquake exposure (96.28) remains critically high.
Your Top Threats: Earthquake and Flood
Earthquake risk ranks highest at 96.28, reflecting Island County's position adjacent to the Puget Sound and active seismic zones underlying Puget Basin geology. Flood risk at 73.40 reflects island and tidal dynamics, while wildfire exposure remains low at 35.43 due to the maritime climate.
Earthquake and Flood Coverage Essential
Island County residents should secure earthquake insurance immediately and obtain flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program for coastal properties. Retrofit homes to current seismic codes and maintain awareness of tsunami risk in waterfront areas.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Island County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Island County
Risk Verdict
Island County's FEMA risk score places it at the 78th percentile nationally, indicating lower-than-typical exposure for a U.S. county. At this risk level, having a documented household preparedness plan — not just awareness — is the meaningful next step for Island County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Island County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 96th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 73th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (35th percentile), tornado (11th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With earthquake ranked as the top hazard at the 96th percentile nationally, Island County residents benefit from reviewing homeowners insurance: standard policies rarely cover earthquake damage, and separate earthquake insurance must be purchased before an event. The county's flood risk at the 73th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Earthquake insurance in Island County is typically offered as a separate policy — standard homeowners coverage excludes ground movement. Reviewing this gap and comparing policy options before an event is a financial preparedness step with potentially large consequences.
Regional Context
The Washington county average is 8.0 composite points below Island County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Island County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Island County, WA?
What types of natural hazards affect Island County?
How does Island County risk compare to the Washington average?
Is Island County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Island 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.