Natural Disaster Risk in Benton

Natural Hazard Profile: Benton, Tennessee

Benton, in Polk County, is a town of roughly 5,302 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot summers, mild winters, and transitional weather patterns, and in particular tornado risk in both spring and fall. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Benton residents and property owners must navigate.

Benton's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.5/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The area faces significant landslide risk, where mountainous topography and saturated soils during wet periods combine to create hazardous mass movement conditions. Secondary hazards include wildfire and earthquake.

Within Tennessee, Benton's risk is, near the 5.8/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Polk County identifies landslide as the foremost hazard, followed by wildfire and earthquake. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Benton 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 landslide is recommended.