Salem, Virginia: natural disaster risk
How exposed Salem is to floods, storms and other hazards, from FEMA and NOAA records for Salem City.
Salem is a city of 25,618 people in Salem City, Virginia. FEMA's National Risk Index rates Salem City very low for natural hazards overall, lower than most of the US. The costliest hazards there are inland flooding, strong wind and earthquake, with about $9 million in expected losses a year across the county. The weather service has logged 79 storm reports in the county since 1978, including 1 tornadoes and 23 floods. NOAA hurricane records show 1 hurricane and 7 tropical storms passing within 65 miles of the county's center. About 1.5% of homes in the county carry federal flood insurance.
Risk figures are for Salem City. FEMA National Risk Index December 2025; NOAA Storm Events; US Census Bureau ACS 2020 to 2024. Updated November 6, 2026.
Top risks in Salem
Full Salem City 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.
- Secure outdoor furniture and trash bins before storms.
- Have trees near the house checked.
- 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 | $7M | |
| Strong wind | $479K | |
| Earthquake | $336K | |
| Cold wave | $243K | |
| Hurricane | $205K | |
| Lightning | $154K | |
| Tornado | $133K | |
| Hail | $54K | |
| Winter weather | $32K | |
| Heat wave | $27K | |
| Ice storm | $10K | |
| Wildfire | $692 |
Homes in Salem
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.
Strongest tornadoes in Salem City
Other cities in Virginia
All ›Common questions about Salem
Is Salem safe from natural disasters?
Salem is in Salem City, which FEMA's National Risk Index rates very low overall, lower than most of the US. The biggest hazards are inland flooding, strong wind, earthquake. No place is free of risk, so check the flood map and insurance for any home you consider.
What natural disasters happen in Salem?
By expected yearly losses in Salem City, the top hazards are inland flooding (Low), strong wind (Low), earthquake (Very Low). Salem City has been part of 12 federal disaster or emergency declarations for natural events.
Does Salem get tornadoes?
Yes. NOAA records list 1 tornadoes in Salem City since 1950; the strongest was an EF1 tornado on May 26, 2024 near Salem (C). FEMA rates tornado risk in the county very low.
Do I need flood insurance in Salem?
Standard home insurance does not cover floods. In Salem City, about 1.5% of homes have federal flood insurance, and FEMA rates inland flooding risk low. Check the FEMA flood map for your address and get a quote even outside a high-risk zone.