Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 28472
Whiteville, North Carolina
Risk Summary for ZIP 28472
ZIP 28472 scores 7.3/10 (High risk), above the U.S. average of 4.5. The leading hazard is Strong Wind.
Top Hazards
All 18 Hazard Scores
How it compares
Live Conditions
🏠 What this means for insurance
Above-average risk — check your policy limits
Standard homeowners insurance may not fully cover all hazards rated highly in this area. Verify that your policy includes adequate coverage for the top local hazards, and ask your insurer about specific endorsements or separate policies (e.g., flood, earthquake).
This is general information only. Consult a licensed insurance professional for advice specific to your property.
Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 28472, North Carolina
ZIP 28472 in Whiteville sits near the Atlantic Coast of the southeastern United States. Its humid subtropical climate produces hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, and notably a hurricane and tropical storm season affecting the coast. These conditions define the natural disaster environment for households across this ZIP code.
According to FEMA's National Risk Index, ZIP 28472 carries an overall risk score of 7.3/10, placing it in the high category. High-wind events from severe thunderstorms and derechos are the leading hazard, with damaging gusts capable of downing trees and causing widespread structural damage. The area also faces notable exposure to hurricane and lightning.
Within North Carolina, ZIP 28472's risk is, slightly above the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of North Carolina identifies wind as the foremost hazard, followed by hurricane and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.
ZIP 28472'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.
What this means for ZIP 28472: Strong Wind preparedness
- Confirm your policy covers wind damage and keep an inventory of property for claims.
- Inspect and reinforce roofing, siding, and garage doors, which are common failure points in high winds.
- Secure or store outdoor furniture and loose objects that can become projectiles.
Risk for the surrounding area
Local Factors for ZIP 28472
These city-level factors differentiate ZIP 28472 from other communities in North Carolina County and provide geographic context for its hazard exposure.
Population
16,780
SuburbanGeographic Zone
SE Atlantic Coast
Hurricane & coastal flood risk
Climate Band
Mild Temperate
Latitude 34.3°
Flood Terrain
Minimal — county topography limits flood risk
Flood score: 1.0/10
Wildfire Exposure
Moderate — seasonal fire risk
Fire score: 8.0/10
Coordinates
34.2971° N, 78.6845° W
Population and coordinates from SimpleMaps US Cities data. Hazard scores from FEMA National Risk Index. Geographic classification derived from coordinates.
Recent Climate Data for ZIP 28472
Last 12 months · Source: Open-Meteo archive
Notable Weather Days (last 12 months)
Nearby ZIP codes
Other cities in North Carolina
Data source: FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). County-level data applied to ZIP codes within each county. Scores are normalized to 1–10 across all US counties. This information is for general awareness only — consult official emergency management resources and a licensed insurer for property-specific advice.