Natural Disaster Risk in Pocahontas County

Natural Hazard Profile: Pocahontas County, West Virginia

Pocahontas County is located in the United States in West Virginia, home to roughly 7,845 residents. The county experiences cold winters, warm summers, and mountainous terrain that intensifies flooding, with flash flooding and winter storms 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, Pocahontas County carries an overall risk score of 4.5/10, 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 landslide and hurricane.

Pocahontas County's risk score, slightly below the 5.0/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Pocahontas County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, landslide, and hurricane. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Pocahontas 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.