Natural Disaster Risk in Butte

Natural Hazard Profile: Butte, Montana

Butte, in Silver Bow County, is a city of approximately 34,232 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 Butte residents and property owners must navigate.

Butte's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.5/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Severe winter storms top the local risk profile, bringing blizzard conditions, ice storms, and extreme cold that pose health risks and cause extensive property and infrastructure damage. Secondary hazards include landslide and avalanche.

Within Montana, Butte's risk is, slightly above the 4.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Silver Bow County identifies winter as the foremost hazard, followed by landslide and avalanche. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Butte 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 winter is recommended.