Natural Disaster Risk in Cleveland

Natural Hazard Profile: Cleveland, Georgia

Cleveland, in White County, is a city of approximately 24,081 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters, and in particular an active tornado and severe thunderstorm season in spring. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Cleveland residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Cleveland carries an overall risk score of 5.8/10, placing it in the moderate category. Arctic air outbreaks are the leading natural hazard, with temperature plunges to dangerous lows capable of causing hypothermia and widespread infrastructure failures. The area also faces notable exposure to wind and ice storm.

Within Georgia, Cleveland's risk is, slightly above the 5.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of White County identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by wind and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Cleveland 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 cold wave is recommended.