Natural Disaster Risk in Williamsport

Natural Hazard Profile: Williamsport, Maryland

Williamsport, in Washington County, is a city of approximately 10,144 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 Williamsport residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Williamsport carries an overall risk score of 6.8/10, placing it in the high category. Hurricane and tropical storm exposure tops the local risk profile, with the community vulnerable to storm surge, high sustained winds, and flooding rainfall during the June–November season. The area also faces notable exposure to drought and avalanche.

Within Maryland, Williamsport'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.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Williamsport residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for hurricane and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.