Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 17236

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 17236, Pennsylvania

Located along the mid-Atlantic coast, ZIP 17236 serves the Mercersburg community. The humid continental climate of this part of Pennsylvania — bringing cold winters, warm summers, and four distinct seasons — directly shapes the hazard exposure for properties in this postal area.

ZIP 17236's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.7/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. 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. Secondary hazards include hurricane and wind.

Relative to other U.S. communities, ZIP 17236's natural disaster risk is well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly above the 5.9/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by avalanche and hurricane, as measured by FEMA across Pennsylvania. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

ZIP 17236's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.