Natural Disaster Risk in Brewster County

Natural Hazard Profile: Brewster County, Texas

Brewster County is located in the United States in Texas, home to roughly 9,511 residents. The county experiences an exceptionally varied climate from humid subtropical in the east to desert in the west, with overlapping tornado, hurricane, flood, and drought seasons 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, Brewster County carries an overall risk score of 5.4/10, placing it in the moderate category. The threat of avalanche is the primary natural hazard here, with winter snowpack instability on mountain terrain posing risks to roads, structures, and outdoor recreation activities. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and drought.

Brewster County's risk score, near the 5.6/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Brewster County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, wildfire, and drought. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Brewster County 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 avalanche is recommended.