Natural Disaster Risk in Mississippi County

Natural Hazard Profile: Mississippi County, Arkansas

Mississippi County is located in the United States in Arkansas, home to roughly 40,536 residents. The county experiences hot, humid summers and frequent severe thunderstorm activity, with a volatile spring storm 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.

FEMA rates Mississippi County's composite natural disaster risk at 6.8 out of 10 — high risk. The area faces significant drought exposure, where below-average precipitation over extended periods strains water resources and drives secondary hazards like wildfire and crop failure. Residents should also account for earthquake and ice storm risk in their preparedness planning.

Mississippi County's risk score, slightly above the 6.2/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Mississippi County, the highest-scoring are drought, earthquake, and ice storm. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Mississippi County's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.