Natural Disaster Risk in Swansboro

Natural Hazard Profile: Swansboro, North Carolina

Swansboro is a city of approximately 14,939 residents in Carteret 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 Swansboro.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Swansboro carries an overall risk score of 6.3/10, placing it in the high category. Hurricane risk defines the natural hazard environment here, requiring residents to maintain seasonal preparedness plans and insurance coverage for wind and flood damage. The area also faces notable exposure to coastal flood and winter.

Swansboro's risk score, near the 6.2/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Carteret County, the highest-scoring are hurricane, coastal flood, and winter. 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, Swansboro 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.