Hazards and Threats

There are many natural, technological or national security hazards that could occur in Alabama and result in an emergency or disaster. Hazards are those sources of potential danger or adverse conditions, but not all hazards have the same likelihood of occurring in a given time period. The likelihood of an event happening in that time period is calculated based on records of previous events in Alabama.

Assessing the risk of impact from a hazard is based on the likelihood of the event happening and on the effect of the event on physical elements (assets) in the community. Each asset has some vulnerability to hazards. For example, buildings are vulnerable to high winds and floods.  The level of risk to a hazard is determined by the amount of vulnerability and the likelihood of that hazard occurring.

Disasters: Hazards & Threats News   RSS

Expert: Fertilizer Facility Explosions Unlikely in Alabama

​An expert says the likelihood of a fertilizer-related … incident similar to the fiery... more

Some Thoughts on the West, Texas, Fertilizer Plant Disaster

When I first heard the news about the West, Texas, fertilizer facility explosion, I was shocked like everyone else that... more

Precipitation in the Forecast

The forecasters may not always be correct, but … their analysis of weather trends should always be... more

Cash Donations Are Most Effective

Alabamians who want to help victims of Hurricane Sandy, a massive storm that ravaged the East Coast should donate... more

Participate in the 2012 U.S. Great Earthquake Drill October 18

​Are you ready for an earthquake? Don’t think it will happen … in Alabama?... more

What Causes Tree Failure in Storms

Fallen branches and trees are part of the aftermath of a tropical storm. Heavy rains and storm force winds can... more

Alabamians Need to Be Prepared for Isaac: Stock Up on Basic Items Now

Are you ready for a major emergency or disaster such as a hurricane? The latest predictions for Tropical Storm... more

Fire Safety Urged During 4th of July Celebrations

Press Release from Alabama Forestry Commission … As we approach the 4th of July... more

2012 Hurricane Season Outlook

May 27 - June 2, 2012 is national Hurricane Preparedness Week, and on May 24, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration... more

Extension Educators Demonstrating Value of “An Ounce of Prevention” in Urban Forestry

Jack Rowe still has a hard time suppressing a chuckle recalling a mildly confrontational exchange he had years ago with... more


Alabama's top 10 ranking natural hazards are:

  • Flooding (high risk and high impact)
  • Tornadoes/Wind Storms (high risk and high impact)
  • Hurricanes (high risk and high impact)
  • Winter/Ice Storms (high risk and medium impact)
  • Lightning (high risk and low impact)
  • Drought (medium risk and low impact)
  • Hail (medium risk and low impact)
  • Extreme temperatures (medium risk and low impact)
  • Wildfire (low risk and low impact)
  • Urban Fire (low risk and low impact)

The top 10 ranking technological hazards are:

  • Energy crisis (medium risk and medium impact)
  • Transportation (air/sea/rail) (medium risk and medium impact)
  • Terrorism (low risk and high impact)
  • Chemical stockpile (low risk and high impact)
  • Radiological (attack) (low risk and high impact)
  • Radiological (fixed facility) (low risk and medium impact)
  • Dam failure/breach (low risk and medium impact)
  • Hazmat—hazardous materials (fixed facility) (low risk and medium impact)
  • Cyber-terrorism (low risk and medium impact)
  • Hazmat (transportation) (low risk and low impact)

Talk with your local EMA office to learn which hazards your community is most vulnerable.

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