Natural Disaster Risk in Broadus

Natural Hazard Profile: Broadus, Montana

Broadus is a small community of about 1,108 in Powder River County, in the northern tier of the continental United States. The area experiences cold winters, dry summers, and extreme temperature swings, with rapid chinook wind events and spring flooding shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Broadus.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Broadus carries an overall risk score of 4.0/10, placing it in the moderate category. Fire risk is the leading concern in the area, where seasonal drought and combustible vegetation combine to create a high-risk wildfire environment. The area also faces notable exposure to avalanche and tsunami.

Broadus's risk score, slightly below the 4.9/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Powder River County, the highest-scoring are wildfire, avalanche, and tsunami. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Broadus 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 wildfire is recommended.