Natural Disaster Risk in Hatton

Natural Hazard Profile: Hatton, North Dakota

Hatton, in Steele County, is a small community of about 991 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 Hatton residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Hatton carries an overall risk score of 4.3/10, placing it in the moderate category. High-wind events from severe thunderstorms and derechos are the leading hazard, with damaging gusts capable of downing trees and causing widespread structural damage. The area also faces notable exposure to hail and ice storm.

Within North Dakota, Hatton's risk is, slightly below the 4.7/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Steele County identifies wind as the foremost hazard, followed by hail and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Hatton 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 wind is recommended.