Natural Disaster Risk in Clarksdale

Natural Hazard Profile: Clarksdale, Mississippi

Clarksdale, in Coahoma County, is a city of approximately 16,170 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 Clarksdale residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Clarksdale carries an overall risk score of 6.0/10, placing it in the high category. Seismic activity is the dominant hazard, with the community situated in or near an active tectonic zone capable of producing damaging ground shaking. The area also faces notable exposure to tornado and drought.

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

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Clarksdale residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for earthquake 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.