Natural Disaster Risk in Hazelwood

Natural Hazard Profile: Hazelwood, Missouri

Hazelwood, in St. Louis County, is a city of approximately 17,813 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. Its humid continental climate brings hot summers, cold winters, and collision of multiple air masses, and in particular year-round severe weather including tornadoes, ice storms, and floods. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Hazelwood residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Hazelwood carries an overall risk score of 7.9/10, placing it in the high category. Large hail is the dominant natural hazard, with supercell thunderstorms regularly producing damaging hailstones capable of destroying crops, vehicles, and roofs. The area also faces notable exposure to heat and cold wave.

Within Missouri, Hazelwood's risk is, considerably above the 5.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of St. Louis County identifies hail as the foremost hazard, followed by heat and cold wave. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Hazelwood's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.