Natural Disaster Risk in Leland

Natural Hazard Profile: Leland, North Carolina

Leland is a city of approximately 46,933 residents in Brunswick County, near the Atlantic Coast of the southeastern United States. The area experiences hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, with a hurricane and tropical storm season affecting the coast shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Leland.

FEMA rates Leland'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.

Leland'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.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Leland residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for coastal flood 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.