Natural Disaster Risk in Shelley

Natural Hazard Profile: Shelley, Idaho

Located in the Great Plains in Bingham County, Shelley is a city of approximately 11,699 residents. The semi-arid climate that characterizes this part of Idaho — marked by dry summers, cold winters, and significant wildfire risk — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Shelley a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Shelley's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.3/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Volcanic hazard exposure defines the local risk environment, driven by proximity to one of the most active volcanic systems in the United States. Secondary hazards include winter and earthquake.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Shelley's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly above the 5.1/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by volcano and winter, as measured by FEMA across Bingham County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Shelley residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for volcano and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.