High Risk North Carolina  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Brunswick County NC

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

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
152,318
Area
860
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
58
federally declared

Brunswick County on North Carolina's southern coast is directly exposed to Atlantic hurricanes and storm surge. Florence caused extensive flooding across the county in 2018. The county's Oak Island and Holden Beach barrier communities face extreme surge exposure during direct hurricane landfalls. Brunswick has experienced significant beach erosion and property loss from repeated storm events.

// 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 8 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (High Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 58
Last Major Event Hurricane Florence (2018)
Event Frequency Major event every 3–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (910) 253-2380
Emergency Shelters 14 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes US-17 North, I-74 West, US-74 West, NC-211 North

// County Profile

County Brunswick County NC
State North Carolina (NC)
Population 152,318
Area 860 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Other North Carolina Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

Brunswick Nuclear Plant NC
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Southport  ·  Duke Energy Progress  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.