Natural Disaster Risk in Holmes County

Natural Hazard Profile: Holmes County, Mississippi

Holmes County, in the United States in Mississippi, is characterized by its humid subtropical climate — very hot, humid summers and mild winters. The county faces overlapping tornado and hurricane seasons, and its FEMA risk assessment establishes the hazard baseline shared by all the towns and cities it contains.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Holmes County carries an overall risk score of 6.7/10, placing it in the high category. Drought is the leading natural hazard, with multi-year dry periods capable of depleting water supplies, devastating agriculture, and increasing wildfire risk across the region. The area also faces notable exposure to tornado and hurricane.

Within Mississippi, Holmes County'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 Holmes County identifies drought as the foremost hazard, followed by tornado and hurricane. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Holmes County'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.