Jacksonville Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 109,958 and a calculated risk score of 96.5, Jacksonville faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Jacksonville, NC. Settling down in Jacksonville is a choice many are proud of. However, it also comes with specific weather patterns. Specifically, the area has a heightened risk of hurricanes.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 96.543, Jacksonville requires specific preparation. The data highlights Hurricane as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Hurricane risk in Jacksonville, North Carolina
Being situated in a region vulnerable to tropical cyclones, Jacksonville faces threats from high winds and storm surge. Historical data shows significant impacts from major storms, requiring robust flood insurance and evacuation planning.
Jacksonville Hurricane Prep Checklist
- β’Know your specific evacuation zone and local routes
- β’Install storm shutters or measure/cut plywood in advance
- β’Stock at least 7 days of water and non-perishable food
Top Hazards for The Jacksonville Area
From a statewide perspective in North Carolina, 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 99.0. Community resilience depends on every household having a plan for hurricanes.
Historically, the climate of North Carolina dictates that historical precedents show that winter weather are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 96.9. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Environmental studies focusing on North Carolina highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from heat wave events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 94.8 score. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Jacksonville has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Jacksonville? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Jacksonville
Read the Full Guide βFor Jacksonville, water protection is key. The combination of high winds and potential storm surge requires a multi-layered approach. You need to be ready to shelter in place for 72 hours or evacuate at a moment's notice.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Elevate critical documents and electronics off the floor.
- 2Have a 'Go-Bag' ready in case evacuation orders are issued.
- 3Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
- 4Identify your evacuation zone and map out two different routes.
- 5Install storm shutters or have pre-cut plywood ready for windows.
Essential Gear for Jacksonville

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
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.

Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Do not wait for a Hurricane warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist βCompare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | 88.3 | When compared to Charlotte, Jacksonville is slightly higher risk. The difference of 8.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Raleigh | 90.2 | Choosing between Jacksonville and Raleigh? Jacksonville presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Winston-Salem | 73.3 | Choosing between Jacksonville and Winston-Salem? Jacksonville presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Durham | 80.9 | When compared to Durham, Jacksonville is slightly higher risk. The difference of 15.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Greensboro | 81.4 | Choosing between Jacksonville and Greensboro? Jacksonville presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Hurricanes in Jacksonville?
With a risk score of 99.0 for Hurricane, Jacksonville is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Hurricane events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Jacksonville safer than other cities in North Carolina?
It varies by hazard. While Jacksonville has its own risk profile (Total Score: 96.5), it is among the higher-risk areas in North Carolina. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Jacksonville given the risk of Winter Weather?
Every city has risks. The threat of Winter Weather (Score: 96.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Jacksonville is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Jacksonville compare to other cities in North Carolina?
See the full North Carolina Disaster Rankings to see how Jacksonville stacks up against other cities in the state.