Natural Disaster Risk in Burke County
North Dakota
Risk Summary for Burke County
Burke County scores 3.6/10 (Low risk), below the U.S. average of 4.5. The leading hazard is Winter Weather.
Top Hazards
All 18 Hazard Scores
How it compares
Live Conditions
🏠 What this means for insurance
Below-average risk — standard coverage likely adequate
Natural disaster risk here is below the US average. Standard homeowners insurance will typically be sufficient, but it is still worth reviewing exclusions for floods and earthquakes.
This is general information only. Consult a licensed insurance professional for advice specific to your property.
Natural Hazard Profile: Burke County, North Dakota
Burke County, in the United States in North Dakota, is characterized by its continental climate — extremely cold winters and short, warm summers with prairie wind exposure. The county faces severe blizzards and spring flooding, and its FEMA risk assessment establishes the hazard baseline shared by all the towns and cities it contains.
According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Burke County carries an overall risk score of 3.6/10, placing it in the low 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 tsunami and wildfire.
Within North Dakota, Burke County's risk is, slightly below the 4.7/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks below the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Burke County identifies winter as the foremost hazard, followed by tsunami and wildfire. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.
Despite its lower-than-average risk classification, Burke County is not immune to natural hazards. Basic preparedness — an emergency kit, awareness of seasonal risks, and property insurance that covers winter — remains prudent for all residents.
What this means for Burke County: Winter Weather preparedness
- Clear roof snow loads when heavy to prevent structural strain and ice dams.
- Insulate pipes and keep a backup heat source to prevent freezing during extended cold.
- Maintain an emergency kit in your vehicle and home for snow- or ice-related power outages.
Cities in Burke County
ZIP codes in Burke County
Data source: FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). Scores normalized to 1–10 across all US counties. For informational purposes only.