Natural Disaster Risk in Groton

Natural Hazard Profile: Groton, South Dakota

Groton is a small community of about 2,072 in Brown County, in the northern tier of the continental United States. The area experiences harsh winters, hot summers, and significant seasonal variation, with severe blizzards and spring flooding shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Groton.

FEMA rates Groton's composite natural disaster risk at 6.1 out of 10 — high risk. Severe winter storms top the local risk profile, bringing blizzard conditions, ice storms, and extreme cold that pose health risks and cause extensive property and infrastructure damage. Residents should also account for cold wave and hail risk in their preparedness planning.

Groton's risk score, slightly above the 4.9/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Brown County, the highest-scoring are winter, cold wave, and hail. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

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