Natural Disaster Risk in Wilburton

Natural Hazard Profile: Wilburton, Oklahoma

Located in the interior eastern United States in Latimer County, Wilburton is a town of roughly 5,668 residents. 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 Wilburton a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Wilburton's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.3/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Fire risk is the leading concern in the area, where seasonal drought and combustible vegetation combine to create a high-risk wildfire environment. Secondary hazards include ice storm and heat.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Wilburton'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 wildfire and ice storm, as measured by FEMA across Latimer County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Wilburton 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.