Natural Disaster Risk in Chaparral

Natural Hazard Profile: Chaparral, New Mexico

Chaparral, in Otero County, is a city of approximately 19,663 residents situated in the arid interior West. Its semi-arid climate brings hot, dry summers and cold winters with dramatic elevation variation, and in particular a late-summer monsoon season with flash flood risk. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Chaparral residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Chaparral carries an overall risk score of 6.9/10, placing it in the high category. Wildfire is the primary natural hazard, driven by dry seasonal conditions, fire-prone vegetation, and the wind patterns that can spread flames rapidly across the landscape. The area also faces notable exposure to volcano and winter.

Within New Mexico, Chaparral's risk is, slightly above the 5.6/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Otero County identifies wildfire as the foremost hazard, followed by volcano and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Chaparral'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.