Rhode Island natural disaster risk
Rhode Island ranks #20 of 51 from safest. Its biggest relative risks are hurricane, riverine flooding, earthquake.
The vertical line marks the middle of U.S. counties (50).
Risk in Rhode Island's largest counties
| County | Population | Risk score | FEMA rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence County | 664,854 | 93.7 | Relatively Moderate |
| Kent County | 171,456 | 69.4 | Relatively Low |
| Washington County | 130,344 | 64.0 | Relatively Low |
| Newport County | 84,657 | 36.4 | Very Low |
| Bristol County | 50,490 | 19.4 | 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 Rhode Island
- Bristol County 19.4
- Newport County 36.4
- Washington County 64.0
- Kent County 69.4
- Providence County 93.7
Cities in Rhode Island
- Providence, RI risk 82.4
Frequently asked questions
Is Rhode Island safe from natural disasters?
Rhode Island's population-weighted FEMA risk score is 78.5 out of 100 (above average for U.S. counties), #20 of 51 from safest. No residents live in counties FEMA rates relatively high or very high.
What natural disasters happen in Rhode Island?
The highest relative risks in Rhode Island are hurricane, riverine flooding, earthquake (national percentile scores 87, 85, 80).
Where is the safest place to live in Rhode Island?
Among counties with at least 20,000 people, the lowest FEMA risk scores are in Bristol County, Newport County, Washington County.