Moderate Risk Kentucky  ·  Tornado / Severe Storm

Jefferson County KY

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

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
780,566
Area
385
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Severe Storm
FEMA Disasters
34
federally declared

Jefferson County and Louisville sit in a moderate tornado corridor and the Ohio River creates significant flooding risk. The March 2023 tornado outbreak caused damage across the Louisville metro area. Louisville has experienced major Ohio River flooding events that inundate riverside neighborhoods. The county also faces New Madrid Seismic Zone earthquake risk from the major fault system to the southwest.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Identify an interior room or storm shelter.
  • Monitor NOAA weather alerts continuously.
  • Keep emergency kit accessible at all times.
  • Prepare for sudden power outages.

// Recommended Supplies

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

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 6 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Severe Storm
Secondary Hazard Flash Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone X (Moderate Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 34
Last Major Event Tornado (March 2023)
Event Frequency Major event every 5–6 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (502) 574-5000
Emergency Shelters 36 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-64 East, I-65 North, I-71 Northeast, I-264

// County Profile

County Jefferson County KY
State Kentucky (KY)
Population 780,566
Area 385 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone X (Moderate Risk)

// Major Cities

Louisville KY

// Cities in This County

// Other Kentucky Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

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

Fort Knox KY
Military Installation  ·  Radcliff  ·  US Army / Armor School  ·  25-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Fort Campbell KY
Military Installation  ·  Clarksville  ·  US Army / 101st Airborne Division  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High
🏥
University of Louisville Hospital KY
Major Hospital  ·  Louisville, KY  ·  UofL Health  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High

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