North Carolina is located in the Southeast region of the United States. The most significant natural hazards for homeowners in North Carolina are hurricanes, flooding, 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 North Carolina is coordinated by the North Carolina Emergency Management, which publishes alerts, evacuation information and preparedness guides for residents.

Risk levels in North Carolina

Hurricanes North Carolina faces one of the highest hurricane risk levels in the United States, rated Level 5 out of 5 by FEMA. Its long Atlantic… Very High Flooding Flooding is a significant hazard in North Carolina, rated level 4 out of 5. The state's geography and frequent tropical storms contribute… High Severe Storms North Carolina faces an elevated risk of severe thunderstorms, capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, hail, and lightning. The… High Tornadoes North Carolina is rated level 3 of 5 for tornado risk, meaning a moderate hazard exists across the state, especially in the eastern… Moderate Wildfires Wildfires are a moderate risk for North Carolina homes, with peak conditions in spring and fall. The state's wooded regions, especially in… Moderate Extreme Heat North Carolina faces a significant extreme heat risk, rated level 3 out of 5. Summer heat waves, combined with high humidity, can create… Moderate Landslides Landslides and debris flows are a moderate hazard in North Carolina, primarily affecting the mountainous western counties. Steep slopes,… Moderate Earthquakes North Carolina has a level 2 of 5 earthquake risk. While earthquakes are rare and usually minor, they can still cause damage to homes,… Low Winter Storms North Carolina faces a moderate winter storm risk (level 2 of 5), with the western mountains experiencing heavy snow and the Piedmont and… Low Drought North Carolina faces a moderate, level 2 drought risk, with dry spells most common in late summer and fall. These events can stress water… Low