Natural Disaster Risk in Harney County

Natural Hazard Profile: Harney County, Oregon

Harney County is located in the United States in Oregon, home to roughly 7,472 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, Harney County carries an overall risk score of 4.6/10, placing it in the moderate 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 wildfire and avalanche.

Harney County's risk score, slightly below the 5.7/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Harney County, the highest-scoring are volcano, wildfire, and avalanche. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Harney 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 volcano is recommended.