Natural Disaster Risk in Hiawatha

Natural Hazard Profile: Hiawatha, Kansas

Hiawatha, in Brown County, is a town of roughly 4,740 residents 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 Hiawatha residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Hiawatha carries an overall risk score of 5.0/10, placing it in the moderate category. Drought is the leading natural hazard, with multi-year dry periods capable of depleting water supplies, devastating agriculture, and increasing wildfire risk across the region. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and hail.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Hiawatha 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.