Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 26241

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 26241, West Virginia

ZIP 26241 covers part of the Elkins area, along the mid-Atlantic coast. The surrounding region experiences cold winters, warm summers, and mountainous terrain that intensifies flooding, with flash flooding and winter storms shaping the natural hazards that residents of this ZIP code face. Risk scores here are derived from FEMA data for the encompassing county.

FEMA rates ZIP 26241's composite natural disaster risk at 4.7 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 hurricane risk in their preparedness planning.

ZIP 26241's risk score, near 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, 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, ZIP 26241 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.