Natural Disaster Risk in Hazel

Natural Hazard Profile: Hazel, South Dakota

Hazel is a small unincorporated community in Hamlin County, in the interior eastern 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 Hazel.

FEMA rates Hazel's composite natural disaster risk at 4.5 out of 10 — moderate risk. Freezing rain and ice accretion are the primary winter hazard, with glaze ice events capable of downing power lines, snapping tree limbs, and making roads impassable for days. Residents should also account for hail and cold wave risk in their preparedness planning.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Hazel 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.