Natural Disaster Risk in Belle Glade

Natural Hazard Profile: Belle Glade, Florida

Located near the Atlantic Coast of the southeastern United States in Palm Beach County, Belle Glade is a city of approximately 19,796 residents. The tropical climate that characterizes this part of Florida — marked by warm temperatures year-round and high humidity — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Belle Glade a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Belle Glade's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.2/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Hurricane risk defines the natural hazard environment here, requiring residents to maintain seasonal preparedness plans and insurance coverage for wind and flood damage. Secondary hazards include lightning and coastal flood.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Belle Glade's natural disaster risk is well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly above the 5.7/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by hurricane and lightning, as measured by FEMA across Palm Beach County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Belle Glade residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for hurricane 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.