Natural Disaster Risk in Clarissa

Natural Hazard Profile: Clarissa, Minnesota

Located in the northern tier of the continental United States in Todd County, Clarissa is a small community of about 1,395. The continental climate that characterizes this part of Minnesota — marked by some of the harshest winters in the lower 48 and warm summers — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Clarissa a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Clarissa's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.1/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Fire risk is the leading concern in the area, where seasonal drought and combustible vegetation combine to create a high-risk wildfire environment. Secondary hazards include wind and landslide.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Clarissa 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 wildfire is recommended.