Natural Disaster Risk in Defiance

Natural Hazard Profile: Defiance, Ohio

Defiance, in Defiance County, is a city of approximately 28,022 residents situated in the Great Lakes region. Its humid continental climate brings cold winters with lake-effect snow in the north and warm, humid summers, and in particular spring tornado risk and winter ice storms. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Defiance residents and property owners must navigate.

Defiance's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.9/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Hailstorm risk tops the local hazard profile, driven by frequent severe thunderstorm development that produces some of the most property-damaging hail in the country. Secondary hazards include tornado and ice storm.

Within Ohio, Defiance's risk is, slightly below the 5.8/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Defiance County identifies hail as the foremost hazard, followed by tornado and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Defiance 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 hail is recommended.