County Data
Dorchester County, South Carolina
Self-reliance and preparedness data for Dorchester County
Relatively Moderate
Hazard Risk (13.6/100)
Good
Solar (4.6 kWh/m²/day)
Natural Hazard Risks in Dorchester County
| Hazard | Risk Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado | Relatively Low | 16.0 |
| Ice Storm | Relatively Low | 15.6 |
| Earthquake | Relatively Moderate | 13.1 |
| Winter Weather | Relatively Low | 11.2 |
| Riverine Flooding | Relatively Low | 9.8 |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index. Scores 0–100, higher = more risk.
Climate Profile
Temperature & Growing Season
| January Avg | 44°F |
Water & Energy
| Annual Precipitation | 3.8″ |
| Solar Potential | 4.6 kWh/m²/day |
| Wind Speed | 1.1 m/s |
| Soil Type | Sandy Loam |
Local Species
62
Edible species
27
Medicinal species
52
Autonomy Score
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the biggest natural hazards in Dorchester County, South Carolina?
- Dorchester County has an overall hazard rating of Relatively Moderate based on FEMA National Risk Index data. The top threats are Tornado, Ice Storm, Earthquake. Each hazard is scored 0–100 by likelihood and expected impact.
- Is Dorchester County good for solar power?
- Dorchester County has a good solar rating. Solar potential is based on average daily irradiance (kWh/m²/day), which determines how much energy rooftop or ground-mounted panels can produce year-round.
- How many edible plants grow in Dorchester County?
- Our database identifies 62 edible plant species in Dorchester County based on regional flora data, USDA hardiness zone, and iNaturalist observations. The full field guide includes identification notes, preparation methods, and seasonal availability.
- What is the autonomy score for Dorchester County?
- Dorchester County has an autonomy score of 52. This composite score measures local self-reliance potential across water access, food production capacity, energy resources, and supply chain resilience. Higher scores indicate greater potential for self-sufficiency.