Brandon Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 116,365 and a calculated risk score of 99.3, Brandon faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Brandon, FL. Brandon is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that lightning rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Brandon a Risk Score of 99.339 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Lightning and Hurricane.
Top Hazards for The Brandon Area
In the broader context of Florida's climate, lightning represent a significant vector of concern for Brandon. Furthermore, recent climate normals and historical event data contribute to this elevated score of 99.9. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a lightning strains the power grid.
From a statewide perspective in Florida, seasonality plays a huge role in the intensity of hurricanes here. Consequently, our algorithm flags this as a priority area with a calculated intensity of 99.8. Community resilience depends on every household having a plan for hurricanes.
Within the specific ecosystem of Florida, tornado frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 99.7/100. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Brandon? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Brandon
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Brandon. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for Brandon

Water
COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon Container with Spigot
A solid middle-ground option with a built-in spigot. Good for camping or countertop use.

Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.

Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Lightning now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | 99.7 | Choosing between Brandon and Miami? Brandon presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Tampa | 99.3 | Choosing between Brandon and Tampa? Brandon presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Orlando | 97.8 | When compared to Orlando, Brandon is slightly higher risk. The difference of 1.5 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Jacksonville | 96.7 | Jacksonville and Brandon share similar regional risks, but our data gives Jacksonville the edge in overall safety. |
| Cape Coral | 99.2 | When compared to Cape Coral, Brandon is slightly higher risk. The difference of 0.1 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Brandon?
With a risk score of 99.9 for Lightning, Brandon is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Brandon safer than other cities in Florida?
It varies by hazard. While Brandon has its own risk profile (Total Score: 99.3), it is among the higher-risk areas in Florida. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Brandon given the risk of Hurricane?
Every city has risks. The threat of Hurricane (Score: 99.8) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Brandon is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Brandon compare to other cities in Florida?
See the full Florida Disaster Rankings to see how Brandon stacks up against other cities in the state.