Norwich, Connecticut: natural disaster risk
How exposed Norwich is to floods, storms and other hazards, from FEMA and NOAA records for Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region.
Norwich is a city of 39,973 people in Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region, Connecticut. FEMA's National Risk Index rates Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region relatively moderate for natural hazards overall, about average for the US. The costliest hazards there are inland flooding, hurricane and earthquake, with about $83.5 million in expected losses a year across the county. NOAA hurricane records show 10 hurricanes and 26 tropical storms passing within 65 miles of the county's center, 3 of them major. About 2.6% of homes in the county carry federal flood insurance.
Risk figures are for Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region. FEMA National Risk Index December 2025; NOAA Storm Events; US Census Bureau ACS 2020 to 2024. Updated November 6, 2026.
Top risks in Norwich
Full Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region report ›- Check the FEMA flood map for your address, and ask the seller or landlord about past flooding.
- Price a flood policy now. Most new federal policies take 30 days to start.
- Know your evacuation zone and route before June 1.
- Ask about roof age, shutters and the separate wind or hurricane deductible on your home policy.
- Ask whether an older house is bolted to its foundation.
- Consider separate earthquake insurance where risk is high.
All hazards
| Hazard | Rating | A year |
|---|---|---|
| Inland flooding | $52M | |
| Hurricane | $22M | |
| Earthquake | $2M | |
| Tornado | $2M | |
| Coastal flooding | $1M | |
| Heat wave | $1M | |
| Cold wave | $814K | |
| Strong wind | $751K | |
| Lightning | $677K | |
| Ice storm | $395K | |
| Hail | $242K | |
| Winter weather | $200K |
Homes in Norwich
Older homes and mobile homes usually take more damage in storms, floods and earthquakes. Ask about roof age, flood history and retrofits before you buy or rent.
More cities in Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region
Other cities in Connecticut
All ›Common questions about Norwich
Is Norwich safe from natural disasters?
Norwich is in Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region, which FEMA's National Risk Index rates relatively moderate overall, about average for the US. The biggest hazards are inland flooding, hurricane, earthquake. No place is free of risk, so check the flood map and insurance for any home you consider.
What natural disasters happen in Norwich?
By expected yearly losses in Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region, the top hazards are inland flooding (Moderate), hurricane (High), earthquake (Low). Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region has been part of 30 federal disaster or emergency declarations for natural events.
Does Norwich get tornadoes?
Tornadoes are rare here. NOAA has no county tornado reports for Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region since 1950.
Do I need flood insurance in Norwich?
Standard home insurance does not cover floods. In Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region, about 2.6% of homes have federal flood insurance, and FEMA rates inland flooding risk moderate. Check the FEMA flood map for your address and get a quote even outside a high-risk zone.