Natural Disaster Risk in Oxford

Natural Hazard Profile: Oxford, Indiana

Oxford, in Benton County, is a small community of about 1,645 situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid continental climate brings cold winters and warm, humid summers with variable severe weather, and in particular spring tornado risk across the state. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Oxford residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Oxford carries an overall risk score of 3.7/10, placing it in the low category. Tsunami risk is the primary coastal hazard, driven by the area's proximity to seismically active offshore zones capable of generating ocean waves that inundate low-lying coastlines. The area also faces notable exposure to volcano and cold wave.

Within Indiana, Oxford's risk is, considerably below the 5.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks below the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Benton County identifies tsunami as the foremost hazard, followed by volcano and cold wave. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Despite its lower-than-average risk classification, Oxford is not immune to natural hazards. Basic preparedness — an emergency kit, awareness of seasonal risks, and property insurance that covers tsunami — remains prudent for all residents.