Natural Disaster Risk in Hammond

Natural Hazard Profile: Hammond, Louisiana

Hammond, in Tangipahoa County, is a city of approximately 30,173 residents situated in the Deep South. Its humid subtropical climate brings very hot summers, mild winters, and exceptionally high humidity, and in particular a lengthy hurricane and tropical storm season. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Hammond residents and property owners must navigate.

Hammond's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.5/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tropical cyclones are the dominant hazard, with the area facing threats from both direct landfalling hurricanes and the outer rain bands and storm surge of systems making landfall nearby. Secondary hazards include coastal flood and lightning.

Within Louisiana, Hammond's risk is, slightly above the 6.1/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Tangipahoa County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by coastal flood and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Hammond residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for hurricane and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.