Natural Disaster Risk in Cleveland

Natural Hazard Profile: Cleveland, Mississippi

Located in the interior eastern United States in Bolivar County, Cleveland is a city of approximately 16,696 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 Cleveland a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Cleveland's composite natural disaster risk at 6.4 out of 10 — high risk. Seismic activity is the dominant hazard, with the community situated in or near an active tectonic zone capable of producing damaging ground shaking. Residents should also account for drought and heat risk in their preparedness planning.

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

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Cleveland 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.