Natural Disaster Risk in Benewah County

Natural Hazard Profile: Benewah County, Idaho

Situated in the United States, Benewah County in Idaho experiences a semi-arid climate marked by dry summers, cold winters, and significant wildfire risk. A high fire danger period from July through September is a defining feature of the regional hazard profile that affects residents and property owners countywide.

Benewah County's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.4/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Slope instability and debris flows are the primary natural hazard, driven by a combination of local geology, precipitation intensity, and terrain that creates susceptibility to failure. Secondary hazards include avalanche and wildfire.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Benewah County's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 5.1/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by landslide and avalanche, as measured by FEMA across Benewah County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Benewah 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 landslide is recommended.