Natural Disaster Risk in Morton

Natural Hazard Profile: Morton, Texas

Located in the arid interior West in Cochran County, Morton is a small community of about 1,767. The diverse climate that characterizes this part of Texas — marked by an exceptionally varied climate from humid subtropical in the east to desert in the west — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Morton a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Morton's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.3/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Prolonged drought is the primary hazard risk, shaped by low annual rainfall, high evaporation rates, and increasing temperature trends that deepen and lengthen dry periods. Secondary hazards include hail and wildfire.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Morton's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 5.6/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by drought and hail, as measured by FEMA across Cochran County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Morton 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 drought is recommended.