Natural Disaster Risk in Beaufort

Natural Hazard Profile: Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort, in Beaufort County, is a city of approximately 25,342 residents situated near the Atlantic Coast of the southeastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and mild winters, and in particular an active hurricane season with direct storm threat to the coastline. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Beaufort residents and property owners must navigate.

Beaufort's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.6/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tropical cyclones are the dominant hazard, with the area facing threats from both direct landfalling hurricanes and the outer rain bands and storm surge of systems making landfall nearby. Secondary hazards include coastal flood and lightning.

Within South Carolina, Beaufort's risk is, slightly above the 6.6/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Beaufort County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by coastal flood and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Beaufort residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for hurricane 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.