Natural Disaster Risk in Hatch

Natural Hazard Profile: Hatch, Utah

Hatch, in Garfield County, is a small unincorporated community situated in the Great Plains. Its semi-arid climate brings dry conditions, hot summers, and heavy mountain snowfall, and in particular significant avalanche risk in mountain terrain each winter. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Hatch residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Hatch carries an overall risk score of 5.7/10, placing it in the moderate category. Volcanic activity is the foremost natural hazard, with the area situated near active volcanic systems capable of producing lava flows, ashfall, and pyroclastic hazards. The area also faces notable exposure to avalanche and landslide.

Within Utah, Hatch's risk is, near the 5.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Garfield County identifies volcano as the foremost hazard, followed by avalanche and landslide. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Hatch 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 volcano is recommended.