Natural Disaster Risk in Fitzgerald

Natural Hazard Profile: Fitzgerald, Georgia

Located in the Deep South in Ben Hill County, Fitzgerald is a city of approximately 18,552 residents. The humid subtropical climate that characterizes this part of Georgia — marked by hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Fitzgerald a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Fitzgerald's composite natural disaster risk at 4.9 out of 10 — moderate risk. Hurricane and tropical storm exposure tops the local risk profile, with the community vulnerable to storm surge, high sustained winds, and flooding rainfall during the June–November season. Residents should also account for tornado and drought risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Fitzgerald's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 5.2/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by hurricane and tornado, as measured by FEMA across Ben Hill County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Fitzgerald 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.