Low Risk Illinois  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Jefferson County IL

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
38
Area
571
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Jefferson County IL in Illinois faces tornado / flash flooding risk across its 571 square mile area. Mount Vernon serves this southern Illinois county with Rend Lake and I-57/64 junction. Jefferson serves as the county seat and regional emergency coordination hub.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Low Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Mississippi River Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Low
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event 2019 Tornado
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (618) 244-8010
Emergency Shelters 2 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Jefferson County IL
State Illinois (IL)
Population 38
Area 571 sq miles
FEMA Region Low

// Other Illinois Counties