Natural Disaster Risk in Carthage

Natural Hazard Profile: Carthage, Tennessee

Carthage, in Smith County, is a town of roughly 8,183 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 Carthage residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Carthage carries an overall risk score of 4.6/10, placing it in the moderate category. Landslide and debris flow risk tops the local hazard profile, with steep terrain and periodic heavy rainfall creating conditions for rapid slope failure in vulnerable areas. The area also faces notable exposure to earthquake and tornado.

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

Carthage's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that landslide exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.