Natural Disaster Risk in Derma

Natural Hazard Profile: Derma, Mississippi

Derma, in Calhoun County, is a small unincorporated community 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 Derma residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Derma carries an overall risk score of 5.5/10, placing it in the moderate 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 drought and hurricane.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Derma 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.