Natural Disaster Risk in Monroe

Natural Hazard Profile: Monroe, Iowa

Monroe is a town of roughly 3,024 residents in Jasper County, in the interior eastern United States. The area experiences cold winters, hot summers, and frequent severe weather, with a tornado-active spring season shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Monroe.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Monroe carries an overall risk score of 6.0/10, placing it in the high category. Prolonged drought is the primary hazard risk, shaped by low annual rainfall, high evaporation rates, and increasing temperature trends that deepen and lengthen dry periods. The area also faces notable exposure to hail and wind.

Monroe's risk score, slightly above the 5.4/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Jasper County, the highest-scoring are drought, hail, and wind. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Monroe's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.