Natural Disaster Risk in Clarkfield

Natural Hazard Profile: Clarkfield, Minnesota

Located in the interior eastern United States in Yellow Medicine County, Clarkfield is a small community of about 1,351. 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 Clarkfield a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Clarkfield's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.1/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Heat wave risk stands out as the primary natural hazard here, with above-average summer temperatures amplified by urban heat island effects in developed areas. Secondary hazards include winter and drought.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Clarkfield'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 heat and winter, as measured by FEMA across Yellow Medicine County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

Clarkfield's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that heat exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.