Natural Disaster Risk in Houston

Natural Hazard Profile: Houston, Minnesota

Located in the interior eastern United States in Houston County, Houston is a town of roughly 3,221 residents. 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 Houston a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Houston's composite natural disaster risk at 4.6 out of 10 — moderate risk. Landslide and debris flow risk tops the local hazard profile, with steep terrain and periodic heavy rainfall creating conditions for rapid slope failure in vulnerable areas. Residents should also account for hail and cold wave risk in their preparedness planning.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Houston 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 landslide is recommended.