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Alabama · Risk Readiness
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what Alabama throws at different parts of the state.
See AL hazardsAL hazard profile
Alabama leads the nation in tornado fatalities per capita. The April 27, 2011 outbreak — 62 tornadoes in a single day, 252 deaths in Alabama alone — remains the deadliest tornado event in US history since 1936. The Tennessee Valley and North Alabama are the highest-risk zones, but no county is safe. The Gulf Coast from Gulf Shores to Mobile Bay faces direct hurricane exposure. Hurricane Sally (2020) made landfall near Gulf Shores as a Category 2 and caused catastrophic flooding. Mobile Bay's funnel shape amplifies storm surge — the 1900-era infrastructure was not built for modern storms. The Black Warrior, Tombigbee, Alabama, and Coosa river systems flood regularly. Flash flooding in the hill country and mountain regions of North Alabama can be sudden and severe. The Black Belt's flat terrain moves water slowly, creating prolonged inundation events.
Occur across most of the state, often embedded in severe thunderstorm lines and tropical systems.
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Direct landfalls and tropical moisture bring catastrophic wind, surge, and inland flooding.
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Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and lightning — March through October.
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Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
Standard homeowner's policies in Alabama exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
During an emergency
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to Alabama.
AL Checklists