Natural Disaster Risk in Berthold

Natural Hazard Profile: Berthold, North Dakota

Berthold, in Ward County, is a small community of about 886 situated in the northern tier of the continental United States. Its continental climate brings extremely cold winters and short, warm summers with prairie wind exposure, and in particular severe blizzards and spring flooding. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Berthold residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Berthold carries an overall risk score of 6.0/10, placing it in the high category. Winter weather is the dominant natural hazard, with the area facing heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and bitter cold that can immobilize infrastructure and create dangerous travel conditions. The area also faces notable exposure to cold wave and ice storm.

Within North Dakota, Berthold's risk is, slightly above the 4.7/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Ward County identifies winter as the foremost hazard, followed by cold wave and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Berthold'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.