Natural Disaster Risk in Poplar

Natural Hazard Profile: Poplar, Montana

Located in the northern tier of the continental United States in Roosevelt County, Poplar is a town of roughly 3,083 residents. The semi-arid climate that characterizes this part of Montana — marked by cold winters, dry summers, and extreme temperature swings — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Poplar a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Poplar's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.4/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Extreme cold snaps top the local risk profile, with Arctic front passages causing rapid and severe temperature drops that challenge both infrastructure and outdoor safety. Secondary hazards include winter and wind.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Poplar's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly above the 4.9/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by cold wave and winter, as measured by FEMA across Roosevelt County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Poplar 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 cold wave is recommended.