Natural Disaster Risk in Centerville

Natural Hazard Profile: Centerville, Kansas

Located in the interior eastern United States in Linn County, Centerville is a small community of about 599. The semi-arid continental climate that characterizes this part of Kansas — marked by hot summers, cold winters, and exposure at the heart of Tornado Alley — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Centerville a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Centerville's composite natural disaster risk at 4.9 out of 10 — moderate risk. Landslide and debris flow risk tops the local hazard profile, with steep terrain and periodic heavy rainfall creating conditions for rapid slope failure in vulnerable areas. Residents should also account for winter and hail risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Centerville's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 5.2/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by landslide and winter, as measured by FEMA across Linn County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Centerville 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 landslide is recommended.