Natural Disaster Risk in Franklin County

Natural Hazard Profile: Franklin County, Maine

Franklin County, in the United States in Maine, is characterized by its humid continental climate — long, harsh winters and brief summers with heavy snowfall. The county faces powerful nor'easter blizzards, and its FEMA risk assessment establishes the hazard baseline shared by all the towns and cities it contains.

Franklin County's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.9/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Snow avalanche exposure tops the local risk profile, with the area's mountain setting and annual snowfall loading producing regular avalanche cycles on steep slopes. Secondary hazards include ice storm and winter.

Within Maine, Franklin County's risk is, near the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Franklin County identifies avalanche as the foremost hazard, followed by ice storm and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Franklin 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 avalanche is recommended.