Charles County, Maryland Hazard Report | Natural Catastrophe And Climate Risk

HazardDB

Hazard Score

124 Catastrophes Recorded

Historical_Hail

Historical_Tornadoes

Historical_Hurricanes

Historical_Floods

Historical_Wind

120

Charles County, Maryland

4 Cities with a Population of 167,640, and 51,214 Households

Charles County, Maryland, faces relatively low to moderate risk levels for various natural hazards, with a diverse range of events including flooding, thunderstorms, and winter storms. With a population of 166,485 and significant building and agricultural values at risk, the county has a risk rating of "Relatively Low" to "Relatively Moderate" across different hazard categories. Specific risks include flooding events with an annual frequency of 1.29 and a relatively low risk score of 23.1, while lightning events are more frequent (62.4) but have a higher risk score of 84.9, indicating a relatively high risk level. The county's location along the Potomac River and its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay contribute to its vulnerability to flooding events, while its inland position reduces coastal risks.

Geologically, Charles County is characterized by its flat terrain, with no significant mountain peaks or fault lines that would increase seismic hazards. However, the county's extensive water bodies, including the Potomac River, present a risk of flooding, particularly during severe weather events. The region's susceptibility to thunderstorms and winter storms is influenced by its climatic factors, with an average annual frequency of 2.69 for winter storms and a risk score of 76.1, indicating a relatively moderate level of risk. Historical events such as hurricanes and tropical storms impacting the region underscore the need for preparedness and mitigation strategies to address climate-related hazards.

Overall, Charles County's natural disaster and climate risk assessment highlights the importance of understanding and addressing the various hazards that the region faces. While the county's risk levels are relatively low to moderate, the presence of water bodies, combined with climatic factors such as thunderstorms and winter storms, necessitates proactive measures to enhance resilience and protect the community. By considering historical events, geological features, and specific risk ratios, stakeholders can better prepare for and mitigate the potential impacts of natural disasters in Charles County, Maryland.

Wildfire Risk: Very Low

Tornado Risk: Low

Hurricane Risk: Very Low

Hail Risk: Low

Flood Risk: Moderate

Tsunami Risk: Very Low

Earthquake Risk: Very Low

Wind Risk: Low

HAZARDS

67

Power Transmission Lines

0

Coastlines

6

Water Bodies

0

Fault Lines

EMERGENCY SERVICES

8

Hazard Shelters

17

Fire Stations

1

Hospitals

4

Police Stations

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Prince George's County, located in Maryland, has a population of 904,929 with a population density of 1,854.4 per square mile. The county has a diverse population, with 55% Black, 18% White, 14% Hispanic, 3.9% Asian, and 3% multiracial. The county has a slightly higher percentage of Black residents compared to the state average of 30%, but a lower percentage of White residents compared to the state average of 54%. The median age in Prince George's County is 34.9, with a slightly higher percentage of females (49.7%) than males (45.7%).

In terms of household composition, Prince George's County has an average household size of 2.78, with 63% of households being family households. The county has a homeownership rate of 58.3%, which is lower than the state average of 66.4%, and a vacancy rate of 7.4%. In terms of agriculture, there are 367 farms in the county with an average size of 94 acres, and the average sales per farm in 2017 were $47,871. Compared to other counties in Maryland, Prince George's County has a larger population and a higher population density. It also has a higher percentage of Black residents and a lower homeownership rate compared to the state average.

Regions

CLIMATE OVERVIEW

Average Temperature

14 °F Cold

Average Precipitation

1090 mm Moderate

Average Humidity

84% Moderately High

Plant Hardiness

7/10 Moderately High

NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE

Hailstorm

2020-07-21

Hailstorm

2020-06-25

Hailstorm

2019-08-01

Hailstorm

2018-05-12

Flooding

Flooding

Heavy Rain Snowmelt Dam B

2010-03-10

Flooding

Flooding

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2003-11-19

Flooding

Tropical Cyclone

1998-02-03

Hailstorm

1997-03-29

Hailstorm

1996-11-08

Flooding

Tropical Cyclone

Heavy Rain

1958-05-04