Natural Disaster Risk in Kilgore

Natural Hazard Profile: Kilgore, Nebraska

Kilgore is a small unincorporated community in Cherry County, in the Great Plains. The area experiences hot summers, cold winters, and open-terrain wind exposure, with one of the most tornado-active spring seasons in the central US 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 Kilgore.

FEMA rates Kilgore's composite natural disaster risk at 4.8 out of 10 — moderate risk. The threat of wildfire dominates the local risk environment, with hot, dry summers and abundant fuel creating dangerous fire conditions each year. Residents should also account for drought and landslide risk in their preparedness planning.

Kilgore's risk score, near the 4.8/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Cherry County, the highest-scoring are wildfire, drought, and landslide. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Kilgore 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.