Natural Disaster Risk in Saint Francis

Natural Hazard Profile: Saint Francis, South Dakota

Saint Francis is a small community of about 1,317 in Todd County, in the Great Plains. 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 Saint Francis.

FEMA rates Saint Francis's composite natural disaster risk at 5.4 out of 10 — moderate risk. The threat of wildfire dominates the local risk environment, with hot, dry summers and abundant fuel creating dangerous fire conditions each year. Residents should also account for winter and cold wave risk in their preparedness planning.

Saint Francis'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 Todd County, the highest-scoring are wildfire, winter, 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, Saint Francis 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 wildfire is recommended.