Natural Disaster Risk in Paw Paw

Natural Hazard Profile: Paw Paw, West Virginia

Paw Paw, in Hampshire County, is a town of roughly 3,272 residents situated along the mid-Atlantic coast. Its humid continental climate brings cold winters, warm summers, and mountainous terrain that intensifies flooding, and in particular flash flooding and winter storms. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Paw Paw residents and property owners must navigate.

Paw Paw's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.1/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. 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. Secondary hazards include landslide and hurricane.

Within West Virginia, Paw Paw's risk is, near the 5.0/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Hampshire County identifies avalanche as the foremost hazard, followed by landslide and hurricane. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Paw Paw 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.