Natural Disaster Risk in Foss

Natural Hazard Profile: Foss, Oklahoma

Located in the interior eastern United States in Washita County, Foss is a small community of about 699. The semi-arid climate that characterizes this part of Oklahoma — marked by hot summers, variable winters, and exposure at the center of Tornado Alley — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Foss a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Foss's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.0/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Prolonged drought is the primary hazard risk, shaped by low annual rainfall, high evaporation rates, and increasing temperature trends that deepen and lengthen dry periods. Secondary hazards include ice storm and hail.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Foss's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 6.4/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by drought and ice storm, as measured by FEMA across Washita County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Foss residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for drought 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.