Natural Disaster Risk in Massillon

Natural Hazard Profile: Massillon, Ohio

Massillon, in Stark County, is a city of approximately 47,741 residents situated in the interior eastern United States. 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 Massillon residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Massillon carries an overall risk score of 7.3/10, placing it in the high category. Large hail is the dominant natural hazard, with supercell thunderstorms regularly producing damaging hailstones capable of destroying crops, vehicles, and roofs. The area also faces notable exposure to lightning and ice storm.

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

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Massillon residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for hail and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.