Natural Disaster Risk in Horry County

Natural Hazard Profile: Horry County, South Carolina

Horry County is located in the United States in South Carolina, home to roughly 348,574 residents. The county experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, with an active hurricane season with direct storm threat to the coastline 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, Horry County carries an overall risk score of 7.9/10, placing it in the high category. Hurricane risk defines the natural hazard environment here, requiring residents to maintain seasonal preparedness plans and insurance coverage for wind and flood damage. The area also faces notable exposure to coastal flood and tornado.

Horry County's risk score, slightly above the 6.6/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Horry County, the highest-scoring are hurricane, coastal flood, and tornado. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Horry County's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.