Natural Disaster Risk in Billings

Natural Hazard Profile: Billings, Montana

Billings, in Yellowstone County, is a city of approximately 47,977 residents situated in the northern tier of the continental United States. Its semi-arid climate brings cold winters, dry summers, and extreme temperature swings, and in particular rapid chinook wind events and spring flooding. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Billings residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Billings carries an overall risk score of 6.7/10, placing it in the high category. Winter weather is the dominant natural hazard, with the area facing heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and bitter cold that can immobilize infrastructure and create dangerous travel conditions. The area also faces notable exposure to cold wave and wildfire.

Within Montana, Billings's risk is, considerably above the 4.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Yellowstone County identifies winter as the foremost hazard, followed by cold wave and wildfire. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Billings'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.