Natural Disaster Risk in Suwannee County

Natural Hazard Profile: Suwannee County, Florida

Suwannee County is located in the United States in Florida, home to roughly 43,427 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, Suwannee County carries an overall risk score of 5.0/10, 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 wildfire.

Suwannee County'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 Suwannee County, the highest-scoring are hurricane, lightning, 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, Suwannee 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.