Natural Disaster Risk in Cambridge

Natural Hazard Profile: Cambridge, Kansas

Cambridge, in Cowley County, is a small unincorporated community situated in the interior eastern United States. Its semi-arid continental climate brings hot summers, cold winters, and exposure at the heart of Tornado Alley, and in particular one of the most intense tornado seasons in the world, peaking in May and June. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Cambridge residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Cambridge carries an overall risk score of 6.8/10, placing it in the high category. Wildfire is the primary natural hazard, driven by dry seasonal conditions, fire-prone vegetation, and the wind patterns that can spread flames rapidly across the landscape. The area also faces notable exposure to tornado and ice storm.

Within Kansas, Cambridge's risk is, considerably above the 5.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Cowley County identifies wildfire as the foremost hazard, followed by tornado and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

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