High Risk Georgia  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Chatham County GA

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

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
298952
Area
440
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
52
federally declared

Chatham County is home to Savannah and Georgia's primary Atlantic coast hurricane exposure. Matthew in 2016 forced mass evacuations and caused significant flooding and beach erosion. The county's historic district sits on a bluff above sea level but surrounding low-lying communities face serious storm surge risk from direct hurricane strikes. The Savannah River also creates significant inland flood risk.

// 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 52
Last Major Event Hurricane Matthew (2016)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (912) 201-4500
Emergency Shelters 28 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-16 West, US-17 North, US-80 West, US-278 West

// Recommended Preparedness Gear

Based on Chatham County GA's primary hazard profile (Hurricane / Storm Surge), the following gear is recommended for a High risk area.

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// County Profile

County Chatham County GA
State Georgia (GA)
Population 298952
Area 440 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Other Georgia Counties