Natural Disaster Risk in Estill County

Natural Hazard Profile: Estill County, Kentucky

Estill County is located in the United States in Kentucky, home to roughly 14,163 residents. The county experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters with ice storm risk, with recurring winter ice storm events shaping the natural hazards faced by its communities. FEMA assesses risk at this county level, providing the baseline for every city and ZIP code within its boundaries.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Estill County carries an overall risk score of 5.1/10, placing it in the moderate category. The threat of avalanche is the primary natural hazard here, with winter snowpack instability on mountain terrain posing risks to roads, structures, and outdoor recreation activities. The area also faces notable exposure to winter and landslide.

Estill County's risk score, slightly below the 5.5/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Estill County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, winter, and landslide. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Estill 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 avalanche is recommended.