Natural Disaster Risk in Josephine County

Natural Hazard Profile: Josephine County, Oregon

Situated in the United States, Josephine County in Oregon experiences a oceanic climate marked by mild, wet winters on the coast and semi-arid conditions inland. A high wildfire risk period in the dry summer months is a defining feature of the regional hazard profile that affects residents and property owners countywide.

Josephine County's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.5/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Fire risk is the leading concern in the area, where seasonal drought and combustible vegetation combine to create a high-risk wildfire environment. Secondary hazards include earthquake and volcano.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Josephine County's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 5.7/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by wildfire and earthquake, as measured by FEMA across Josephine County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Josephine 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 wildfire is recommended.