Bella-Vista, Arkansas

8 Land Tracts in Benton County , Elk Watershed

Bella-Vista, Arkansas, located in Benton County, faces a relatively moderate overall hazard risk due to various factors. The area experiences high levels of precipitation (1160.48 mm) and humidity (80%), making it prone to flooding and landslides. The region's topography, characterized by the Ozark Mountains, can exacerbate these risks, as steep slopes increase the likelihood of soil erosion and instability during heavy rainfall events. Additionally, the presence of fault lines in the vicinity, such as the New Madrid Seismic Zone, poses a potential threat of earthquakes, although the risk is relatively low.

The city of Bella-Vista is situated inland and does not directly face coastal hazards. However, its proximity to water bodies like Beaver Lake and the Illinois River can lead to localized flooding during extreme weather events. The city's location within the Neosho - Verdigris hydrologic subregion further increases the susceptibility to flooding, especially in low-lying areas. While tornadoes are common in Arkansas, the risk for Bella-Vista is relatively low compared to other regions in the state, but it remains a potential hazard during severe weather outbreaks.

Overall, Bella-Vista's natural disaster and climate risk assessment indicates a combination of factors that contribute to its hazard vulnerability. While the area is not directly exposed to coastal threats or high seismic activity, the presence of geological features like fault lines, mountainous terrain, and water bodies can increase the susceptibility to hazards such as flooding, landslides, and earthquakes. Understanding and addressing these specific climate factors and geological features is crucial for effective hazard mitigation and preparedness efforts in Bella-Vista, Arkansas.