Natural Disaster Risk in Silver Plume

Natural Hazard Profile: Silver Plume, Colorado

Located in the Great Plains in Clear Creek County, Silver Plume is a small unincorporated community. The semi-arid continental climate that characterizes this part of Colorado — marked by dry air, significant mountain snowfall, and rapid weather changes — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Silver Plume a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Silver Plume's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.0/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The threat of avalanche is the primary natural hazard here, with winter snowpack instability on mountain terrain posing risks to roads, structures, and outdoor recreation activities. Secondary hazards include wildfire and volcano.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Silver Plume's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 5.2/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by avalanche and wildfire, as measured by FEMA across Clear Creek County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Silver Plume residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for avalanche is recommended.