Natural Disaster Risk in Monroe

Natural Hazard Profile: Monroe, South Dakota

Monroe is a small unincorporated community in McCook 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 Monroe.

FEMA rates Monroe's composite natural disaster risk at 5.1 out of 10 — moderate 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 drought and hail risk in their preparedness planning.

Monroe's risk score, near 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 McCook County, the highest-scoring are winter, drought, and hail. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Monroe 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 winter is recommended.