Natural Disaster Risk in Quemado

Natural Hazard Profile: Quemado, New Mexico

Quemado, in Catron County, is a small community of about 602 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 Quemado residents and property owners must navigate.

Quemado's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.7/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The threat of wildfire dominates the local risk environment, with hot, dry summers and abundant fuel creating dangerous fire conditions each year. Secondary hazards include landslide and volcano.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Quemado 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.