Biloxi, Mississippi

6 Land Tracts in Harrison County , Mississippi Coastal Watershed

Biloxi, Mississippi faces a relatively high risk of natural disasters and climate-related hazards. The city is located in Harrison County, which has a history of being susceptible to hurricanes, with Hurricane Katrina in 2005 causing significant destruction along the Gulf Coast. The area is also prone to high levels of precipitation, with an annual average of 1650.04 mm, leading to potential flooding risks.

The city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico exposes it to storm surge threats during hurricanes and tropical storms. The Mississippi Coastal hydrologic unit, which includes Biloxi, is part of the Pascagoula hydrologic region, known for its low-lying coastal plains that are vulnerable to flooding. Additionally, the region's relatively low elevation increases the risk of inundation from heavy rainfall events. Biloxi's climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures, further contributes to the likelihood of severe weather events like thunderstorms and lightning strikes.

Moreover, the area's geological features, such as fault lines and the Mississippi Sound water body, can exacerbate hazard risks. The presence of fault lines in the region increases the potential for seismic activity, although the earthquake risk is relatively low. The city's coastline is lined with beaches and is home to several mountain peaks in nearby regions. These geographical elements, in combination with the climate factors, make Biloxi, Mississippi a location with a heightened vulnerability to natural disasters and climate-related risks.