Hurricane Risk in the U.S. – Key Insights

1. High-Risk States: Florida leads with about 120 hurricane landfalls since 1851 (37 major storms). Other top states include Texas

(66 total, 19 major), Louisiana (58, 18), and North Carolina (58, 7). Coastal hot spots include South Florida

(a major hurricane every 14–19 years), North Carolina’s Outer Banks (every 5–7 years), and the Northern Gulf Coast (every 10 years).

2. Storm Surge Risk: All coastal areas are vulnerable, especially the Gulf Coast due to flat terrain.

Cities like Miami, New Orleans, Tampa, New York, and Savannah are at high risk.

3. Inland Impacts: Flash flooding causes 60% of hurricane-related deaths. Storms now retain strength farther inland, increasing risks for areas like inland Texas.

4. Climate Change Trends: Warming oceans are pushing hurricane risk inland. By mid-century, 1 in 3 Americans may face hurricane-force winds,

including those in states like Tennessee and Arkansas. Major hurricanes (Category 3+) now make up nearly 40% of all storms, up from 10% in the 1980s.

5. Tools & Resources: FEMA’s National Risk Index and NOAA’s storm surge maps help visualize exposure, expected losses, and community vulnerability.