Natural Disaster Risk in Colman

Natural Hazard Profile: Colman, South Dakota

Colman, in Moody County, is a small community of about 1,628 situated in the interior eastern United States. Its semi-arid continental climate brings harsh winters, hot summers, and significant seasonal variation, and in particular severe blizzards and spring flooding. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Colman residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Colman carries an overall risk score of 5.2/10, placing it in the moderate category. Ice storm risk tops the local winter hazard profile, with freezing rain events capable of coating roads, trees, and power lines with ice that causes widespread outages and dangerous travel conditions. The area also faces notable exposure to winter and hail.

Within South Dakota, Colman's risk is, near the 4.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Moody County identifies ice storm as the foremost hazard, followed by winter and hail. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Colman 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 ice storm is recommended.