Natural Disaster Risk in Highland County

Natural Hazard Profile: Highland County, Virginia

Highland County is located in the United States in Virginia, home to roughly 2,232 residents. The county experiences hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, with hurricane and nor'easter exposure 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 Highland County's composite natural disaster risk at 4.0 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 landslide and drought risk in their preparedness planning.

Highland County's risk score, slightly below the 5.1/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Highland County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, landslide, and drought. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Highland County's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that avalanche exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.