Kingsport Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 95,059 and a calculated risk score of 39.8, Kingsport faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Kingsport, TN. Calling Kingsport home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to lightning.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Kingsport sits at a Risk Score of 39.848. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Lightning and Landslide.
Top Hazards for The Kingsport Area
Considering the historical weather trends in Tennessee, data indicates that Kingsport has a higher-than-average exposure to lightning. It is important to note that this metric (score: 93.6) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Within the specific ecosystem of Tennessee, landslide frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 87.0/100. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
Long-standing weather records for Tennessee indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter earthquakes. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 86.2. Bolt-down foundations and braced water heaters are standard requirements for safety.
Monitor Active Threats
Kingsport has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Kingsport? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Kingsport
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Kingsport. 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 Kingsport
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
The best insurance against Lightning is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville | 95.0 | Choosing between Kingsport and Nashville? Kingsport presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Memphis | 98.9 | Memphis and Kingsport share similar regional risks, but our data gives Kingsport the edge in overall safety. |
| Knoxville | 85.2 | Choosing between Kingsport and Knoxville? Kingsport presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Chattanooga | 88.9 | When compared to Chattanooga, Kingsport is statistically safer. The difference of 49.0 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Clarksville | 79.0 | When compared to Clarksville, Kingsport is statistically safer. The difference of 39.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Kingsport?
With a risk score of 93.6 for Lightning, Kingsport 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 Kingsport safer than other cities in Tennessee?
It varies by hazard. While Kingsport has its own risk profile (Total Score: 39.8), it is generally comparable to the average in Tennessee. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Kingsport given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 87.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Kingsport is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Kingsport compare to other cities in Tennessee?
See the full Tennessee Disaster Rankings to see how Kingsport stacks up against other cities in the state.