Natural Disaster Risk in Knoxville

Natural Hazard Profile: Knoxville, Maryland

Knoxville, in Washington County, is a town of roughly 4,409 residents situated along the mid-Atlantic coast. Its humid subtropical climate brings warm summers, mild winters, and coastal storm exposure, and in particular tropical storm and nor'easter impacts. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Knoxville residents and property owners must navigate.

Knoxville's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.8/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tropical cyclones are the dominant hazard, with the area facing threats from both direct landfalling hurricanes and the outer rain bands and storm surge of systems making landfall nearby. Secondary hazards include drought and avalanche.

Within Maryland, Knoxville's risk is, near the 6.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Washington County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by drought and avalanche. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Knoxville'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.