Hawaii natural disaster risk
Hawaii ranks #48 of 51 from safest. Its biggest relative risks are riverine flooding, wildfire, lightning.
The vertical line marks the middle of U.S. counties (50).
Risk in Hawaii's largest counties
| County | Population | Risk score | FEMA rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu County | 1,001,146 | 98.8 | Relatively High |
| Hawaii County | 205,769 | 98.5 | Relatively High |
| Maui County | 164,522 | 93.1 | Relatively Moderate |
| Kauai County | 73,731 | 84.4 | Relatively Moderate |
| Kalawao County | 67 | 0.1 | Very Low |
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 Hawaii
- Kauai County 84.4
- Maui County 93.1
- Hawaii County 98.5
- Honolulu County 98.8
Cities in Hawaii
- Honolulu, HI risk 98.8
Frequently asked questions
Is Hawaii safe from natural disasters?
Hawaii's population-weighted FEMA risk score is 97.4 out of 100 (among the highest of U.S. counties), #48 of 51 from safest. About 84% of residents live in counties FEMA rates relatively high or very high.
What natural disasters happen in Hawaii?
The highest relative risks in Hawaii are riverine flooding, wildfire, lightning (national percentile scores 98, 98, 98).
Where is the safest place to live in Hawaii?
Among counties with at least 20,000 people, the lowest FEMA risk scores are in Kauai County, Maui County, Hawaii County.