Natural Disaster Risk in Lawrence

Natural Hazard Profile: Lawrence, Kansas

Lawrence is a city of approximately 32,015 residents in Douglas County, in the interior eastern United States. The area experiences hot summers, cold winters, and exposure at the heart of Tornado Alley, with one of the most intense tornado seasons in the world, peaking in May and June shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Lawrence.

FEMA rates Lawrence's composite natural disaster risk at 6.8 out of 10 — high risk. Severe winter storms top the local risk profile, bringing blizzard conditions, ice storms, and extreme cold that pose health risks and cause extensive property and infrastructure damage. Residents should also account for hail and ice storm risk in their preparedness planning.

Lawrence's risk score, considerably above the 5.2/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Douglas County, the highest-scoring are winter, hail, and ice storm. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Lawrence'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.