Natural Disaster Risk in Cochise

Natural Hazard Profile: Cochise, Arizona

Located in the arid interior West in Cochise County, Cochise is a small community of about 1,066. The desert climate that characterizes this part of Arizona — marked by intense summer heat and very low annual precipitation — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Cochise a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Cochise's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.9/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Heat wave risk stands out as the primary natural hazard here, with above-average summer temperatures amplified by urban heat island effects in developed areas. Secondary hazards include wildfire and lightning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Cochise's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 6.1/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by heat and wildfire, as measured by FEMA across Cochise County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Cochise 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 heat is recommended.