Natural Disaster Risk in Summit County

Natural Hazard Profile: Summit County, Utah

Summit County is located in the United States in Utah, home to roughly 42,322 residents. The county experiences dry conditions, hot summers, and heavy mountain snowfall, with significant avalanche risk in mountain terrain each winter 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, Summit County carries an overall risk score of 5.7/10, 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 volcano.

Summit County's risk score, near the 5.5/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Summit County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, wildfire, and volcano. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Summit 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.