Natural Disaster Risk in Mattoon

Natural Hazard Profile: Mattoon, Illinois

Mattoon, in Coles County, is a city of approximately 20,350 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid continental climate brings bitterly cold winters and hot, humid summers, and in particular a severe thunderstorm and tornado season each spring. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Mattoon residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Mattoon carries an overall risk score of 6.4/10, placing it in the high category. Drought is the leading natural hazard, with multi-year dry periods capable of depleting water supplies, devastating agriculture, and increasing wildfire risk across the region. The area also faces notable exposure to earthquake and winter.

Within Illinois, Mattoon's risk is, slightly above the 5.8/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Coles County identifies drought as the foremost hazard, followed by earthquake and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Mattoon residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for drought 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.