Kentucky is located in the Southeast region of the United States. The most significant natural hazards for homeowners in Kentucky are flooding, tornadoes, severe storms. Each hazard below is rated from 1 (very low) to 5 (very high) based on public hazard data, with practical guidance on what the rating means for your home.

Emergency preparedness in Kentucky is coordinated by the Kentucky Emergency Management, which publishes alerts, evacuation information and preparedness guides for residents.

Risk levels in Kentucky

Flooding Kentucky is rated level 4 of 5 for flooding risk, with hazards ranging from flash floods in Appalachian valleys to slow river floods along… High Tornadoes Kentucky faces a high risk of tornadoes, ranked level 4 of 5. Tornadoes here can occur year-round, but peak in spring and fall, often at… High Severe Storms Severe storms are a significant risk in Kentucky, with the state rated level 4 out of 5 for this hazard. These storms can bring tornadoes,… High Earthquakes Kentucky faces a moderate level 3 earthquake risk, primarily due to its proximity to the New Madrid and Wabash Valley seismic zones. While… Moderate Winter Storms Kentucky faces a moderate but serious winter storm threat each year, with ice and freezing rain often causing more damage than deep snow.… Moderate Extreme Heat Kentucky is rated level 3 of 5 for extreme heat risk, with hot, humid summers that can bring dangerous heat index values from late June… Moderate Drought Drought risk in Kentucky is relatively low, but periodic dry spells can still stress water supplies, agriculture, and homes, especially in… Low Landslides Kentucky faces a level 2 landslide risk, meaning a relatively low but real threat, especially in hilly and mountainous regions of eastern… Low Hurricanes Kentucky faces a low but real risk from hurricanes and tropical storms, primarily as heavy rain and flooding when remnants move inland. The… Very Low Wildfires Kentucky has a relatively low but real wildfire risk, rated level 1 on a five-point scale. Most wildfires occur in the eastern and southern… Very Low