Natural Disaster Risk in Jackson County

Natural Hazard Profile: Jackson County, Illinois

Situated in the United States, Jackson County in Illinois experiences a humid continental climate marked by bitterly cold winters and hot, humid summers. A severe thunderstorm and tornado season each spring is a defining feature of the regional hazard profile that affects residents and property owners countywide.

FEMA rates Jackson County's composite natural disaster risk at 7.3 out of 10 — high risk. High-wind events from severe thunderstorms and derechos are the leading hazard, with damaging gusts capable of downing trees and causing widespread structural damage. Residents should also account for earthquake and landslide risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Jackson County's natural disaster risk is well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly above the 5.8/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by wind and earthquake, as measured by FEMA across Jackson County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Jackson County residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for wind and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.