Natural Disaster Risk in Pocahontas

Natural Hazard Profile: Pocahontas, Tennessee

Pocahontas is a small community of about 1,138 in McNairy County, in the interior eastern United States. The area experiences hot summers, mild winters, and transitional weather patterns, with tornado risk in both spring and fall 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 Pocahontas.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Pocahontas carries an overall risk score of 5.6/10, placing it in the moderate category. Earthquake risk stands out in the local hazard profile, driven by proximity to fault systems with a history of significant ground movement. The area also faces notable exposure to cold wave and landslide.

Pocahontas's risk score, near the 5.8/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for McNairy County, the highest-scoring are earthquake, cold wave, and landslide. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Pocahontas 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.