Natural Disaster Risk in Alma

Natural Hazard Profile: Alma, Arkansas

Alma, in Crawford County, is a city of approximately 12,888 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and frequent severe thunderstorm activity, and in particular a volatile spring storm season. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Alma residents and property owners must navigate.

Alma's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.1/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Freezing rain and ice accretion are the primary winter hazard, with glaze ice events capable of downing power lines, snapping tree limbs, and making roads impassable for days. Secondary hazards include heat and wildfire.

Within Arkansas, Alma's risk is, slightly above the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Crawford County identifies ice storm as the foremost hazard, followed by heat and wildfire. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Alma residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for ice storm and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.