Natural Disaster Risk in Rowley

Natural Hazard Profile: Rowley, Iowa

Rowley is a small community of about 671 in Buchanan 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 Rowley.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Rowley carries an overall risk score of 4.5/10, placing it in the moderate 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.

Rowley's risk score, slightly below the 5.4/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Buchanan 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.

With a moderate risk rating, Rowley residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for drought is recommended.