Hazard Score
52 Catastrophes Recorded
Birmingham, Alabama
7 Land Tracts in Jefferson County , Locust Watershed
Birmingham, Alabama faces a relatively high risk of natural disasters, particularly in terms of flooding and lightning strikes due to its location in Jefferson County. The area's high precipitation levels and humidity make it prone to flash floods, while its relatively high average temperature and humidity increase the likelihood of lightning strikes. Additionally, Birmingham's proximity to the Black Warrior and Tombigbee rivers puts it at risk for river flooding during heavy rainfall events.
The city's location in the South Atlantic-Gulf hydrologic region further exacerbates its flood risk, as it is part of the larger Mobile-Tombigbee hydrologic subregion. Birmingham is also situated near the Locust hydrologic unit, which can contribute to increased flood potential. The hilly terrain and proximity to the Black Warrior River can compound flood risks, as seen during historical events such as the 2019 flash flooding that caused significant damage in the area. Residents should be aware of these factors and take necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of natural disasters in the region.
In addition to flooding, Birmingham faces a moderate risk of earthquakes, with the presence of fault lines in the region. While the risk of tsunamis is not applicable, the city's relatively low risk of hurricanes and tornadoes does not rule out the possibility of these events occurring. Overall, Birmingham's natural disaster risk assessment highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience measures to safeguard the city and its population from potential hazards.
Wildfire Risk: Very Low
Tornado Risk: Moderate
Hurricane Risk: Low
Hail Risk: Moderate
Flood Risk: Moderate
Tsunami Risk: Very Low
Earthquake Risk: Very Low
Wind Risk: High
HAZARDS
8
Power Transmission Lines
0
Coastlines
0
Water Bodies
0
Fault Lines
EMERGENCY SERVICES
2
Hazard Shelters
2
Fire Stations
0
Hospitals
1
Police Stations
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Jefferson County, Alabama, faces a relatively high overall natural disaster and climate risk, with a risk score of 96.47. The county has a high risk rating for events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, with specific risks for hail, thunderstorms, and wildfires. The county has experienced multiple events such as hailstorms, thunderstorms, and flooding, contributing to a relatively high risk value of over $140 million.
Geologically, Jefferson County is home to mountain peaks, water bodies, and fault lines that can exacerbate natural disaster risks. The county's proximity to the coastlines increases the likelihood of hurricanes and tropical storms, while fault lines in the region can lead to earthquakes. Additionally, the presence of mountainous terrain can contribute to the risk of landslides and wildfires. These geological features play a significant role in increasing the overall hazard risk in the area.
The historical data and geological features in Jefferson County highlight ...
Read More
CLIMATE OVERVIEW
NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE
Flooding
Tropical Storm Claudette
2021-06-19Flooding
Tropical Storm Sally
2020-09-15Flooding
Heavy Rain
2019-12-28Hailstorm
2015-12-25
Flooding
Heavy Rain And Snow
2011-03-07Hailstorm
2010-10-24
Flooding
Heavy Rain
2010-03-10Flooding
Tropical Storm Ida
2009-11-10Flooding
Heavy Rain
2009-09-21Hailstorm
2008-03-15
Hailstorm
2006-04-20
Hailstorm
2006-04-20
Hailstorm
2006-04-03
Hailstorm
2006-02-03
Hailstorm
2005-05-20
Flooding
Heavy Rain
2003-05-06Hailstorm
2003-05-05
Flooding
Heavy Rain
2003-02-22Hailstorm
2002-10-06
Hailstorm
2001-05-28
Hailstorm
2000-12-16
Hailstorm
2000-08-04
Hailstorm
2000-07-20
Hailstorm
2000-04-27
Hailstorm
2000-03-30
Hailstorm
1999-06-02
Flooding
Heavy Rain
1998-03-07Hailstorm
1996-08-24
Hailstorm
1996-05-24
Hailstorm
1996-05-24
Hailstorm
1996-05-24
Tornado
1996-04-20
Hailstorm
1996-03-18
Hailstorm
1995-06-10
Hailstorm
1995-04-11
Hailstorm
1995-03-07
Flooding
Torrential Rain
1994-03-24Hailstorm
1993-07-08
Hailstorm
1993-06-15
Tornado
1991-04-29
Hailstorm
1990-07-10
Hailstorm
1990-07-10
Hailstorm
1990-06-22
Hailstorm
1986-07-21
Hailstorm
1985-07-11
Hailstorm
1984-07-05
Hailstorm
1983-12-11
Hailstorm
1978-05-12
Hailstorm
1977-05-08
Hailstorm
1976-03-29
Tornado
1976-01-13
Hailstorm
1975-04-02