Natural Disaster Risk in Monroe County

Natural Hazard Profile: Monroe County, Alabama

Monroe County is located in the United States in Alabama, home to roughly 19,743 residents. The county experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters typical of the Deep South, with an active spring tornado season shaping the natural hazards faced by its communities. FEMA assesses risk at this county level, providing the baseline for every city and ZIP code within its boundaries.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Monroe County carries an overall risk score of 5.7/10, placing it in the moderate category. Hurricane risk defines the natural hazard environment here, requiring residents to maintain seasonal preparedness plans and insurance coverage for wind and flood damage. The area also faces notable exposure to coastal flood and lightning.

Monroe County's risk score, near the 6.0/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Monroe County, the highest-scoring are hurricane, coastal flood, and lightning. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Monroe County residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for hurricane is recommended.