Natural Disaster Risk in St. James County

Natural Hazard Profile: St. James County, Louisiana

St. James County is located in the United States in Louisiana, home to roughly 20,169 residents. The county experiences very hot summers, mild winters, and exceptionally high humidity, with a lengthy hurricane and tropical storm season 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, St. James County carries an overall risk score of 5.2/10, placing it in the moderate category. Coastal flood risk defines the local natural hazard environment, with sea-level rise trends gradually increasing the frequency of tidal flooding events alongside storm surge threats. The area also faces notable exposure to hurricane and drought.

St. James County'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. James County, the highest-scoring are coastal flood, hurricane, and drought. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, St. James 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 coastal flood is recommended.