Natural Disaster Risk in Monroe

Natural Hazard Profile: Monroe, Oregon

Monroe is a town of roughly 3,422 residents in Benton County, in the Pacific Northwest. The area 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 pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Monroe.

FEMA rates Monroe's composite natural disaster risk at 5.3 out of 10 — moderate risk. The area's position within a seismically active region makes earthquake preparedness a top priority for residents and property owners alike. Residents should also account for landslide and volcano risk in their preparedness planning.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Monroe 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 earthquake is recommended.