Natural Disaster Risk in Burns

Natural Hazard Profile: Burns, Oregon

Located in the western mountain region near the Pacific Coast in Harney County, Burns is a town of roughly 4,397 residents. The oceanic climate that characterizes this part of Oregon — marked by mild, wet winters on the coast and semi-arid conditions inland — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Burns a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Burns's composite natural disaster risk at 4.6 out of 10 — moderate risk. Volcanic activity is the foremost natural hazard, with the area situated near active volcanic systems capable of producing lava flows, ashfall, and pyroclastic hazards. Residents should also account for wildfire and avalanche risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Burns's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 5.7/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by volcano and wildfire, as measured by FEMA across Harney County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Burns 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 volcano is recommended.