Natural Disaster Risk in Metropolis

Natural Hazard Profile: Metropolis, Illinois

Located in the interior eastern United States in Massac County, Metropolis is a city of approximately 10,783 residents. The humid continental climate that characterizes this part of Illinois — marked by bitterly cold winters and hot, humid summers — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Metropolis a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Metropolis's composite natural disaster risk at 6.0 out of 10 — high risk. Seismic activity is the dominant hazard, with the community situated in or near an active tectonic zone capable of producing damaging ground shaking. Residents should also account for ice storm and drought risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Metropolis's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 5.8/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by earthquake and ice storm, as measured by FEMA across Massac County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

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