Natural Disaster Risk in Carthage

Natural Hazard Profile: Carthage, Mississippi

Carthage, in Leake County, is a city of approximately 14,986 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings very hot, humid summers and mild winters, and in particular overlapping tornado and hurricane seasons. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Carthage residents and property owners must navigate.

Carthage's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.6/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Strong wind is the primary natural hazard, with the area exposed to downburst winds from convective storms that can exceed 80 mph and cause hurricane-level localized damage. Secondary hazards include hurricane and tornado.

Within Mississippi, Carthage's risk is, slightly above the 6.1/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Leake County identifies wind as the foremost hazard, followed by hurricane and tornado. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Carthage'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.