Natural Disaster Risk in Sussex County

Natural Hazard Profile: Sussex County, New Jersey

Sussex County is located in the United States in New Jersey, home to roughly 144,119 residents. The county experiences warm summers, cold winters, and significant coastal storm exposure, with nor'easters, coastal flooding, and tropical storm threats shaping the natural hazards faced by its communities. FEMA assesses risk at this county level, providing the baseline for every city and ZIP code within its boundaries.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Sussex County carries an overall risk score of 6.6/10, placing it in the high category. Wind damage from severe weather systems tops the local risk profile, with open terrain and frequent storm activity amplifying exposure to destructive gusts. The area also faces notable exposure to cold wave and landslide.

Sussex County's risk score, slightly below the 7.4/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Sussex County, the highest-scoring are wind, cold wave, and landslide. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Sussex County residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for wind 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.