Natural Disaster Risk in Stickney

Natural Hazard Profile: Stickney, South Dakota

Stickney, in Aurora County, is a small community of about 573 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 Stickney residents and property owners must navigate.

Stickney's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.8/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. 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. Secondary hazards include cold wave and drought.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Stickney 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.