Natural Disaster Risk in Beaufort

Natural Hazard Profile: Beaufort, North Carolina

Beaufort, in Carteret County, is a city of approximately 11,289 residents situated near the Atlantic Coast of the southeastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, and in particular a hurricane and tropical storm season affecting the coast. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Beaufort residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Beaufort carries an overall risk score of 6.3/10, placing it in the high 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 coastal flood and winter.

Within North Carolina, Beaufort's risk is, near the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Carteret County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by coastal flood and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Beaufort residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for hurricane 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.