Natural Disaster Risk in Marshall County

Natural Hazard Profile: Marshall County, Minnesota

Marshall County, in the United States in Minnesota, is characterized by its continental climate — some of the harshest winters in the lower 48 and warm summers. The county faces severe blizzards and spring tornado outbreaks, and its FEMA risk assessment establishes the hazard baseline shared by all the towns and cities it contains.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Marshall County carries an overall risk score of 4.8/10, placing it in the moderate category. Drought is the leading natural hazard, with multi-year dry periods capable of depleting water supplies, devastating agriculture, and increasing wildfire risk across the region. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and winter.

Within Minnesota, Marshall County's risk is, slightly below the 5.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Marshall County identifies drought as the foremost hazard, followed by wildfire and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Marshall County'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 drought exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.