County Data
Madison County, Alabama
Self-reliance and preparedness data for Madison County
Relatively Moderate
Hazard Risk (13.7/100)
8a
USDA Zone
230
Frost-Free Days
Moderate
Solar (4.4 kWh/m²/day)
Natural Hazard Risks in Madison County
| Hazard | Risk Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado | Relatively High | 31.5 |
| Cold Wave | Relatively Moderate | 27.1 |
| Lightning | Relatively Moderate | 23.5 |
| Winter Weather | Relatively Moderate | 20.4 |
| Heat Wave | Relatively Moderate | 16.6 |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index. Scores 0–100, higher = more risk.
Climate Profile
Temperature & Growing Season
| January Avg | 41°F |
| July Avg | 77°F |
| USDA Zone | 8a |
| Frost-Free Days | 230 |
Water & Energy
| Annual Precipitation | 62.4″ |
| Solar Potential | 4.4 kWh/m²/day |
| Wind Speed | 0.8 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 Madison County, Alabama?
- Madison County has an overall hazard rating of Relatively Moderate based on FEMA National Risk Index data. The top threats are Tornado, Cold Wave, Lightning. Each hazard is scored 0–100 by likelihood and expected impact.
- What is the growing season in Madison County?
- Madison County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a with approximately 230 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 Madison County good for solar power?
- Madison 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 Madison County?
- Our database identifies 62 edible plant species in Madison 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 Madison County?
- Madison 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
Jefferson
Zone 8b • 251 frost-free days
Mobile
Zone 10a • 310 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