Natural Disaster Risk in Perkinston

Natural Hazard Profile: Perkinston, Mississippi

Perkinston, in Stone County, is a city of approximately 10,931 residents situated in the Deep South. 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 Perkinston residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Perkinston carries an overall risk score of 5.4/10, placing it in the moderate category. Hurricane and tropical storm exposure tops the local risk profile, with the community vulnerable to storm surge, high sustained winds, and flooding rainfall during the June–November season. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and lightning.

Within Mississippi, Perkinston'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 Stone County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by wildfire and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Perkinston 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 hurricane is recommended.