Natural Disaster Risk in Crawford County

Natural Hazard Profile: Crawford County, Kansas

Situated in the United States, Crawford County in Kansas experiences a semi-arid continental climate marked by hot summers, cold winters, and exposure at the heart of Tornado Alley. One of the most intense tornado seasons in the world, peaking in May and June is a defining feature of the regional hazard profile that affects residents and property owners countywide.

Crawford County's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.8/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. 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. Secondary hazards include ice storm and wind.

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

Crawford County'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.