Natural Disaster Risk in Preble County

Natural Hazard Profile: Preble County, Ohio

Preble County is located in the United States in Ohio, home to roughly 40,984 residents. The county experiences cold winters with lake-effect snow in the north and warm, humid summers, with spring tornado risk and winter ice storms 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.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Preble County carries an overall risk score of 5.4/10, placing it in the moderate category. Wind damage from severe weather systems tops the local risk profile, with open terrain and frequent storm activity amplifying exposure to destructive gusts. The area also faces notable exposure to tornado and earthquake.

Preble County's risk score, near the 5.8/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Preble County, the highest-scoring are wind, tornado, and earthquake. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Preble County residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for wind is recommended.