Natural Disaster Risk in Union Star

Natural Hazard Profile: Union Star, Missouri

Union Star, in Andrew County, is a small community of about 1,163 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 Union Star residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Union Star carries an overall risk score of 5.0/10, placing it in the moderate category. 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. The area also faces notable exposure to drought and tornado.

Within Missouri, Union Star's risk is, slightly below the 5.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Andrew County identifies landslide as the foremost hazard, followed by drought and tornado. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Union Star'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 landslide exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.