Natural Disaster Risk in Waltham

Natural Hazard Profile: Waltham, Minnesota

Waltham, in Mower County, is a small community of about 551 situated in the interior eastern 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 Waltham residents and property owners must navigate.

Waltham's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.5/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The area faces significant drought exposure, where below-average precipitation over extended periods strains water resources and drives secondary hazards like wildfire and crop failure. Secondary hazards include hail and tornado.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Waltham 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 drought is recommended.