Delaware natural disaster risk
Delaware ranks #44 of 51 from safest. Its biggest relative risks are winter weather, cold wave, riverine flooding.
The vertical line marks the middle of U.S. counties (50).
Risk in Delaware's largest counties
| County | Population | Risk score | FEMA rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Castle County | 577,961 | 95.3 | Relatively High |
| Sussex County | 255,626 | 94.1 | Relatively Moderate |
| Kent County | 187,604 | 84.5 | Relatively Moderate |
County scores are averages, and the insurance figure above is what owners with a mortgage reported paying in 2024 (Census American Community Survey); premiums have risen since, especially in high-risk areas. For a specific home, check the address on FEMA's flood map and get insurance quotes before you commit. Our guide explains how to check natural disaster risk before you move.
Lowest-risk counties in Delaware
- Kent County 84.5
- Sussex County 94.1
- New Castle County 95.3
Cities in Delaware
- Philadelphia, PA risk 94.5
Frequently asked questions
Is Delaware safe from natural disasters?
Delaware's population-weighted FEMA risk score is 93 out of 100 (among the highest of U.S. counties), #44 of 51 from safest. About 58% of residents live in counties FEMA rates relatively high or very high.
What natural disasters happen in Delaware?
The highest relative risks in Delaware are winter weather, cold wave, riverine flooding (national percentile scores 98, 95, 94).
Where is the safest place to live in Delaware?
Among counties with at least 20,000 people, the lowest FEMA risk scores are in Kent County, Sussex County, New Castle County.