Natural Disaster Risk in Russellville

Natural Hazard Profile: Russellville, Tennessee

Russellville, in Hamblen County, is a town of roughly 3,700 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 Russellville residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Russellville carries an overall risk score of 5.7/10, placing it in the moderate category. Seismic activity is the dominant hazard, with the community situated in or near an active tectonic zone capable of producing damaging ground shaking. The area also faces notable exposure to landslide and lightning.

Within Tennessee, Russellville'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 Hamblen County identifies earthquake as the foremost hazard, followed by landslide and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Russellville 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.