Natural Disaster Risk in Matthews

Natural Hazard Profile: Matthews, North Carolina

Located in the interior eastern United States in Mecklenburg County, Matthews is a city of approximately 46,817 residents. The humid subtropical climate that characterizes this part of North Carolina — marked by hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Matthews a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Matthews's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.7/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornadoes represent the primary threat to life and property here, with the local geography placing the community squarely in a high-frequency severe weather corridor. Secondary hazards include ice storm and lightning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Matthews's natural disaster risk is well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly above the 6.2/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by tornado and ice storm, as measured by FEMA across Mecklenburg County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

Matthews'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.