Natural Disaster Risk in Newton County

Natural Hazard Profile: Newton County, Arkansas

Newton County is located in the United States in Arkansas, home to roughly 7,210 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.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Newton County carries an overall risk score of 5.2/10, placing it in the moderate category. Frequent lightning strikes from an active thunderstorm environment represent the top natural hazard risk, posing safety concerns and causing fire ignitions and power outages. The area also faces notable exposure to ice storm and landslide.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Newton 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 lightning is recommended.