Natural Disaster Risk in Forbes

Natural Hazard Profile: Forbes, Minnesota

Forbes, in St. Louis County, is a small community of about 599 situated in the northern tier of the continental United States. Its continental climate brings some of the harshest winters in the lower 48 and warm summers, and in particular severe blizzards and spring tornado outbreaks. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Forbes residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Forbes carries an overall risk score of 6.8/10, placing it in the high category. Arctic air outbreaks are the leading natural hazard, with temperature plunges to dangerous lows capable of causing hypothermia and widespread infrastructure failures. The area also faces notable exposure to lightning and winter.

Within Minnesota, Forbes's risk is, considerably above the 5.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of St. Louis County identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by lightning and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Forbes residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for cold wave 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.