Natural Disaster Risk in Sullivan

Natural Hazard Profile: Sullivan, Illinois

Sullivan, in Moultrie County, is a town of roughly 7,787 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 Sullivan residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Sullivan carries an overall risk score of 5.6/10, placing it in the moderate 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 cold wave.

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

Sullivan's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that drought exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.