County Data
Jefferson County, Alabama
Self-reliance and preparedness data for Jefferson County
Relatively High
Hazard Risk (28.1/100)
8b
USDA Zone
251
Frost-Free Days
Moderate
Solar (4.5 kWh/m²/day)
Natural Hazard Risks in Jefferson County
| Hazard | Risk Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado | Very High | 52.5 |
| Riverine Flooding | Very High | 38.9 |
| Lightning | Relatively Moderate | 23.3 |
| Winter Weather | Relatively Moderate | 18.3 |
| Strong Wind | Relatively Moderate | 17.7 |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index. Scores 0–100, higher = more risk.
Climate Profile
Temperature & Growing Season
| January Avg | 46°F |
| July Avg | 80°F |
| USDA Zone | 8b |
| Frost-Free Days | 251 |
Water & Energy
| Annual Precipitation | 58.2″ |
| Solar Potential | 4.5 kWh/m²/day |
| Wind Speed | 0.2 m/s |
| Soil Type | Sandy Clay Loam |
Local Species
62
Edible species
27
Medicinal species
76
Autonomy Score
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the biggest natural hazards in Jefferson County, Alabama?
- Jefferson County has an overall hazard rating of Relatively High based on FEMA National Risk Index data. The top threats are Tornado, Riverine Flooding, Lightning. Each hazard is scored 0–100 by likelihood and expected impact.
- What is the growing season in Jefferson County?
- Jefferson County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b with approximately 251 frost-free days per year. This determines which crops, fruit trees, and perennials can survive your winters and how long your outdoor growing season lasts.
- Is Jefferson County good for solar power?
- Jefferson County has a moderate 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 Jefferson County?
- Our database identifies 62 edible plant species in Jefferson 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 Jefferson County?
- Jefferson County has an autonomy score of 76. 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.
Other Counties in Alabama
Mobile
Zone 10a • 310 frost-free days
Madison
Zone 8a • 230 frost-free days
Montgomery
Shelby
Zone 8b • 260 frost-free days
Tuscaloosa
Zone 8b • 263 frost-free days
Baldwin
Zone 9b • 306 frost-free days
Lee
Zone 9a • 263 frost-free days
Morgan
Calhoun
Zone 8b • 249 frost-free days
Etowah
Zone 8b • 251 frost-free days
Houston
Zone 9b • 280 frost-free days
Marshall
Zone 8b • 261 frost-free days