Natural Disaster Risk in Chestertown

Natural Hazard Profile: Chestertown, Maryland

Chestertown is a city of approximately 13,810 residents in Kent County, along the mid-Atlantic coast. The area experiences warm summers, mild winters, and coastal storm exposure, with tropical storm and nor'easter impacts 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 Chestertown.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Chestertown carries an overall risk score of 5.4/10, 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 drought and hurricane.

Chestertown's risk score, slightly below the 6.5/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Kent County, the highest-scoring are coastal flood, drought, and hurricane. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Chestertown 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.