Natural Disaster Risk in Sumter County

Natural Hazard Profile: Sumter County, Florida

Sumter County is located in the United States in Florida, home to roughly 129,698 residents. The county experiences warm temperatures year-round and high humidity, with a June–November hurricane season that defines the risk landscape 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, Sumter County carries an overall risk score of 5.8/10, placing it in the moderate category. Hurricane risk defines the natural hazard environment here, requiring residents to maintain seasonal preparedness plans and insurance coverage for wind and flood damage. The area also faces notable exposure to lightning and tornado.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Sumter 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 hurricane is recommended.