Natural Disaster Risk in Chalmette

Natural Hazard Profile: Chalmette, Louisiana

Chalmette is a city of approximately 22,638 residents in St. Bernard County, along the Gulf Coast. The area experiences very hot summers, mild winters, and exceptionally high humidity, with a lengthy hurricane and tropical storm season shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Chalmette.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Chalmette carries an overall risk score of 5.2/10, placing it in the moderate category. Hurricane risk defines the natural hazard environment here, requiring residents to maintain seasonal preparedness plans and insurance coverage for wind and flood damage. The area also faces notable exposure to coastal flood and lightning.

Chalmette's risk score, slightly below the 6.1/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for St. Bernard County, the highest-scoring are hurricane, coastal flood, and lightning. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Chalmette 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 hurricane is recommended.