Natural Disaster Risk in Brunswick County

Natural Hazard Profile: Brunswick County, North Carolina

Brunswick County is located in the United States in North Carolina, home to roughly 136,245 residents. The county experiences hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, with a hurricane and tropical storm season affecting the coast 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.

FEMA rates Brunswick County's composite natural disaster risk at 7.3 out of 10 — high risk. The risk of coastal inundation tops the local hazard profile, with the area exposed to storm surge, tidal flooding, and wave action during major coastal storm events. Residents should also account for hurricane and wildfire risk in their preparedness planning.

Brunswick County's risk score, slightly above the 6.2/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Brunswick County, the highest-scoring are coastal flood, hurricane, and wildfire. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Brunswick 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.