Natural Disaster Risk in Bennington County

Natural Hazard Profile: Bennington County, Vermont

Bennington County is located in the United States in Vermont, home to roughly 37,345 residents. The county experiences long, snowy winters and cool summers, with nor'easters and spring flooding from snowmelt 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.

FEMA rates Bennington County's composite natural disaster risk at 5.3 out of 10 — moderate risk. Snow avalanche exposure tops the local risk profile, with the area's mountain setting and annual snowfall loading producing regular avalanche cycles on steep slopes. Residents should also account for cold wave and landslide risk in their preparedness planning.

Bennington County's risk score, near the 5.1/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Bennington County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, 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, Bennington 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.