Natural Disaster Risk in Ashland

Natural Hazard Profile: Ashland, Mississippi

Located in the interior eastern United States in Benton County, Ashland is a town of roughly 2,530 residents. The humid subtropical climate that characterizes this part of Mississippi — marked by very hot, humid summers and mild winters — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Ashland a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Ashland's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.8/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake risk stands out in the local hazard profile, driven by proximity to fault systems with a history of significant ground movement. Secondary hazards include landslide and tornado.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Ashland's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 6.1/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by earthquake and landslide, as measured by FEMA across Benton County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Ashland 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 earthquake is recommended.