Natural Disaster Risk in Deschutes County

Natural Hazard Profile: Deschutes County, Oregon

Deschutes County is located in the United States in Oregon, home to roughly 197,964 residents. The county experiences mild, wet winters on the coast and semi-arid conditions inland, with a high wildfire risk period in the dry summer months 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, Deschutes County carries an overall risk score of 6.7/10, placing it in the high category. Volcanic hazard exposure defines the local risk environment, driven by proximity to one of the most active volcanic systems in the United States. The area also faces notable exposure to avalanche and wildfire.

Deschutes County's risk score, slightly above the 5.7/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Deschutes County, the highest-scoring are volcano, avalanche, 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, Deschutes County residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for volcano 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.