Natural Disaster Risk in Stilwell

Natural Hazard Profile: Stilwell, Kansas

Stilwell is a city of approximately 11,486 residents in Johnson 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 Stilwell.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Stilwell carries an overall risk score of 7.2/10, placing it in the high category. The area faces significant winter hazard exposure, with nor'easters, ice storms, or blizzards regularly challenging transportation networks and power infrastructure. The area also faces notable exposure to hail and heat.

Stilwell'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 Johnson County, the highest-scoring are winter, hail, and heat. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Stilwell residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for winter and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.