In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic impact, which has resulted in at least 215 lives lost and countless others missing, Americans are re-evaluating their living situations and the risks associated with extreme weather events. Reports indicate over 730,000 homes across the nation are still without power more than a week after the storm, underscoring the urgency for homeowners to seek more secure locations.
The frequency and severity of natural disasters have surged in 2024, with damage from these events exceeding $25 billion this year alone. Alarmingly, climate change has contributed to a 20% increase in global flooding incidents since the turn of the millennium, while the area affected by wildfires in the United States has jumped by a staggering 320% since 1996.
For those looking to make more informed decisions about where to live, Realtor.com has provided a list of ten states that present the least risk of extreme weather damage, making them ideal for prospective homeowners seeking safety from the wrath of nature.
- Nevada tops the list, boasting 90.6% of residences in low-risk zones, which translates into an impressive $440.4 billion in property value.
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Nebraska is a close second, with 90.2% of homes deemed safe, although the total property value is lower at $159 billion.
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Colorado comes in third, with 89.5% of properties at low risk and a substantial total property value exceeding $1 trillion.
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Kansas ranks fourth, offering 88.8% of homes located in secure areas.
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Minnesota rounds out the top five, with 88.5% of its properties categorized as low-risk.
Iowa, Washington, Ohio, South Dakota, and Missouri also make the cut, with each having over 87% of homes situated in safer zones.
In light of these revelations, Realtor.com economist Jiayi Xu emphasizes the importance of considering locations with lower hurricane risk. “Natural disasters pose significant challenges for homeowners, impacting everything from property safety to financial burdens and emotional well-being. Choosing properties in states known for their lower hurricane risks can greatly alleviate these concerns,” she states.
The impact of extreme weather extends beyond immediate consequences. In high-risk areas, insurance premiums have skyrocketed, leading some homeowners in Florida to forgo coverage entirely. Regions like the West are grappling with escalating wildfire threats, while the Southeast contends with severe flooding issues. Cities such as Austin, Baton Rouge, and Coral Gables are facing mounting damage due to extreme heat conditions.
For those contemplating a move, it is advisable to consult environmental risk scores provided by realtors. Xu recommends, “Evaluating potential homes with these scores can guide prospective buyers in identifying safer locations well before making a purchase decision.”
The statistics paint a concerning picture. Insurance reports reveal that Florida has experienced a staggering 120 hurricanes since 1851, 37 of which reached Category 3 or higher. Texas follows closely, with 64 hurricanes recorded, and North Carolina surprisingly faces the next highest risk, having endured 55 hurricanes despite its position outside the Gulf Coast.
As recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene progress, Floridians and many others remain on alert, with Hurricane Milton potentially making landfall soon. This added sense of urgency is shifting the national dialogue toward long-term safety and community resilience. For many, choosing a new home is transforming from a simple search to an essential quest for a sanctuary away from the dangers posed by nature’s fury.
In this climate, it becomes increasingly clear that safety and investment in resilient living environments are paramount considerations for both current and prospective homeowners navigating the turbulent landscape of extreme weather risks.