Natural Disaster Risk in Sullivan County

Natural Hazard Profile: Sullivan County, New Hampshire

Sullivan County, in the United States in New Hampshire, is characterized by its humid continental climate — long, cold winters and brief, warm summers. The county faces heavy nor'easter snowstorms, 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, Sullivan County carries an overall risk score of 5.1/10, placing it in the moderate category. Avalanche risk is the dominant natural hazard, with steep mountain terrain and heavy seasonal snowpack creating conditions for dangerous snow slides in and around the area. The area also faces notable exposure to landslide and hurricane.

Within New Hampshire, Sullivan County's risk is, slightly below the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Sullivan County identifies avalanche as the foremost hazard, followed by landslide and hurricane. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Sullivan County's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that avalanche exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.