Click on this link for the Hancock County Hazard Mitigation Plan


The Hancock County Hazard Mitigation Plan is a comprehensive strategy designed to reduce the risks and impacts of natural disasters in Hancock County, Ohio, including the City of Findlay and surrounding villages and townships. The plan, updated every 5 years, outlines goals, actions, and strategies to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure from hazards such as flooding, tornadoes, severe storms, winter storms, dam failures, drought, and earthquakes.

All 88 Counties in Ohio are required to have a Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan in order to receive grants from FEMA.

Key Highlights:

1. Purpose: The plan aims to minimize the adverse effects of natural disasters through preparedness, mitigation, and public education. It ensures eligibility for federal disaster funding by meeting the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.

2. Hazard Identification: The plan identifies key hazards affecting the county, including flooding, tornadoes, severe storms, and dam failures. It excludes hazards like hurricanes, tsunamis, and wildfires due to their low likelihood in the region.

3. Mitigation Goals:
o Protect lives and property by making homes, businesses, and infrastructure more resilient.
o Reduce repetitive losses from chronic hazards.
o Educate the public about disaster risks and preparedness.
o Integrate mitigation strategies into local planning and development.

4. Flood Mitigation: Flooding is a significant concern, particularly in Findlay due to the Blanchard River. Efforts include property acquisition in flood-prone areas, updating floodplain maps, improving stormwater management, and enhancing public education on flood risks.

5. Tornado and Severe Storm Preparedness: The plan emphasizes improving warning systems, public education, and the use of weather radios. It also includes goals to create tornado shelters and strengthen building codes.

6. Dam Failure and Drought: While dam failures are rare, the plan includes strategies to assess risks and discourage development near reservoirs. Drought mitigation focuses on monitoring agricultural impacts and ensuring water supply resilience.

7. Public Involvement: The plan emphasizes community participation through public meetings, surveys, and educational programs. It encourages collaboration among local governments, businesses, and residents.

8. Plan Maintenance: The plan is reviewed annually and updated every five years to ensure it remains effective and relevant. The Hancock County Emergency Management Agency oversees its implementation.

9. Achievements: Since the original plan in 2006, significant progress has been made, including property acquisitions, infrastructure improvements, and public education initiatives.

10. New Mitigation Action Items: The Action Items from the previous plan were carried over or retired. Only two new action items were added to the 2025 plan update.
• Install low level radar equipment to improve tornado detection. (7,000 Feet and below)
• Install IPAWS Public Alert and Warning System

This plan serves as a roadmap for Hancock County to reduce natural hazard dangers by addressing current and future disaster risks.