Natural Disaster Risk in Garfield

Natural Hazard Profile: Garfield, Kentucky

Garfield, in Breckinridge County, is a small community of about 866 situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and cold winters with ice storm risk, and in particular recurring winter ice storm events. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Garfield residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Garfield carries an overall risk score of 5.5/10, placing it in the moderate category. Large hail is the dominant natural hazard, with supercell thunderstorms regularly producing damaging hailstones capable of destroying crops, vehicles, and roofs. The area also faces notable exposure to ice storm and earthquake.

Within Kentucky, Garfield's risk is, near the 5.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Breckinridge County identifies hail as the foremost hazard, followed by ice storm and earthquake. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Garfield 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 hail is recommended.