Natural Disaster Risk in Hazard

Natural Hazard Profile: Hazard, Kentucky

Hazard, in Perry County, is a city of approximately 17,453 residents 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 Hazard residents and property owners must navigate.

Hazard's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.7/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The area faces significant landslide risk, where mountainous topography and saturated soils during wet periods combine to create hazardous mass movement conditions. Secondary hazards include avalanche and wildfire.

Within Kentucky, Hazard'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 Perry County identifies landslide as the foremost hazard, followed by avalanche and wildfire. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Hazard 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.