Natural Disaster Risk in Vacherie

Natural Hazard Profile: Vacherie, Louisiana

Located along the Gulf Coast in St. James County, Vacherie is a town of roughly 6,447 residents. The humid subtropical climate that characterizes this part of Louisiana — marked by very hot summers, mild winters, and exceptionally high humidity — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Vacherie a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Vacherie's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.2/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. 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. Secondary hazards include hurricane and drought.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Vacherie's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 6.1/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by coastal flood and hurricane, as measured by FEMA across St. James County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Vacherie 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.