Natural Disaster Risk in Rolla

Natural Hazard Profile: Rolla, North Dakota

Rolla, in Rolette County, is a small community of about 1,453 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 Rolla residents and property owners must navigate.

Rolla's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.4/10 (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 winter and ice storm.

Within North Dakota, Rolla'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 Rolette County identifies wildfire as the foremost hazard, followed by winter and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Rolla 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.