Natural Disaster Risk in Bell

Natural Hazard Profile: Bell, Florida

Bell is a town of roughly 5,074 residents in Gilchrist County, in the Deep South. The area experiences warm temperatures year-round and high humidity, with a June–November hurricane season that defines the risk landscape shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Bell.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Bell carries an overall risk score of 4.5/10, placing it in the moderate category. Coastal flood risk defines the local natural hazard environment, with sea-level rise trends gradually increasing the frequency of tidal flooding events alongside storm surge threats. The area also faces notable exposure to hurricane and wildfire.

Bell's risk score, slightly below the 5.7/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Gilchrist County, the highest-scoring are coastal flood, hurricane, and wildfire. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Bell 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 coastal flood is recommended.