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

HazardDB

Hazard Score

77 Catastrophes Recorded

Historical_Hail

Historical_Tornadoes

Historical_Floods

Historical_Wind

Howard County, Maryland

4 Cities with a Population of 330,292, and 104,749 Households

Howard County, Maryland has a relatively low overall natural disaster and climate risk rating of 80.40 out of 100. The county is susceptible to various hazards such as flooding, strong winds, hailstorms, and lightning strikes. The risk assessment indicates that the county faces moderate risks from tornadoes, wildfires, and winter storms. Despite the low overall risk rating, specific events such as severe thunderstorms with hail and lightning strikes have occurred in the past, impacting the area and residents.

The county's geographical features include several bodies of water, such as the Patapsco River and Triadelphia Reservoir, which could contribute to flood risks during heavy rainfall events. Additionally, Howard County is located near the Patapsco Valley State Park and the Patuxent River, making it susceptible to river flooding. The region also has a relatively low risk of earthquakes, but the proximity to fault lines in nearby areas could pose a potential threat in the future. The area's topography, with its rolling hills and valleys, may also influence flood risks and erosion.

While Howard County does not have any active volcanoes or significant coastal areas, its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay could lead to increased risks from hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly in the coastal regions of Maryland. The county is also located near the Catoctin Mountain Range, which could influence weather patterns and potentially increase the risk of severe weather events. Overall, the natural disaster and climate risk assessment for Howard County highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience measures to mitigate potential hazards in the region.

Wildfire Risk: Very Low

Tornado Risk: Very Low

Hurricane Risk: Very Low

Hail Risk: Very Low

Flood Risk: Moderate

Tsunami Risk: Very Low

Earthquake Risk: Very Low

Wind Risk: Low

HAZARDS

36

Power Transmission Lines

0

Coastlines

34

Water Bodies

0

Fault Lines

EMERGENCY SERVICES

12

Hazard Shelters

11

Fire Stations

4

Hospitals

5

Police Stations

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Howard County, Maryland, has a population of 330,292 with a population density of 1303.4 people per square mile. The county has a diverse population, with 54% White, 15% Black, 12% Asian, and 5% Hispanic. The median age in Howard County is 38.2 years, with slightly more females than males. The average household size is 2.72, and the county has a high percentage of families, making up 73% of households.

In comparison to other counties in Maryland, Howard County stands out for its high population density and diverse population. The county has a higher percentage of White residents compared to the state average of 51%, and a lower percentage of Black residents compared to the state average of 30%. Howard County also has a higher median age than the state average of 38 years, indicating a slightly older population. Additionally, the county has a lower percentage of households with children compared to the state average, with only 30% of households having children under 18 years old. Overall, Howard County is a well-populated and diverse county in Maryland with a slightly older demographic profile.

Regions

CLIMATE OVERVIEW

Average Temperature

13 °F Cold

Average Precipitation

1152 mm Moderate

Average Humidity

80% Moderately High

Plant Hardiness

7/10 Moderately High

NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE

Flooding

Torrential Rain

2018-05-27

Flooding

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2010-03-27

Flooding

Heavy Rain Snowmelt Dam B

2010-03-10

Flooding

Tropical Storm Ida

2003-11-19

Flooding

Tropical Cyclone

Heavy Rain

1975-07-03

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