Natural Disaster Risk in Decatur County

Natural Hazard Profile: Decatur County, Kansas

Decatur County, in the United States in Kansas, is characterized by its semi-arid continental climate — hot summers, cold winters, and exposure at the heart of Tornado Alley. The county faces one of the most intense tornado seasons in the world, peaking in May and June, and its FEMA risk assessment establishes the hazard baseline shared by all the towns and cities it contains.

Decatur County's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.5/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Hailstorm risk tops the local hazard profile, driven by frequent severe thunderstorm development that produces some of the most property-damaging hail in the country. Secondary hazards include drought and wind.

Within Kansas, Decatur County's risk is, slightly below the 5.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Decatur County identifies hail as the foremost hazard, followed by drought and wind. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Decatur County 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 hail is recommended.