Natural Disaster Risk in Colville

Natural Hazard Profile: Colville, Washington

Colville is a city of approximately 13,383 residents in Stevens County, in the Pacific Northwest. The area experiences mild, rainy winters west of the Cascades and semi-arid conditions to the east, with a critical wildfire period in eastern Washington each summer 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 Colville.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Colville carries an overall risk score of 5.2/10, placing it in the moderate category. Fire risk is the leading concern in the area, where seasonal drought and combustible vegetation combine to create a high-risk wildfire environment. The area also faces notable exposure to landslide and avalanche.

Colville's risk score, slightly below the 5.8/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Stevens County, the highest-scoring are wildfire, landslide, and avalanche. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Colville 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.