Natural Disaster Risk in Fulton

Natural Hazard Profile: Fulton, Maryland

Fulton is a town of roughly 6,624 residents in Howard 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 Fulton.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Fulton carries an overall risk score of 6.9/10, placing it in the high category. The area faces significant winter hazard exposure, with nor'easters, ice storms, or blizzards regularly challenging transportation networks and power infrastructure. The area also faces notable exposure to heat and wind.

Fulton's risk score, slightly above the 6.5/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Howard County, the highest-scoring are winter, heat, and wind. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Fulton's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.