Natural Disaster Risk in Harshaw

Natural Hazard Profile: Harshaw, Wisconsin

Harshaw, in Oneida County, is a small community of about 1,220 situated in the northern tier of the continental United States. Its humid continental climate brings long, cold winters with lake-effect snow and warm summers, and in particular severe blizzards and spring tornado outbreaks. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Harshaw residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Harshaw carries an overall risk score of 4.8/10, placing it in the moderate category. Arctic air outbreaks are the leading natural hazard, with temperature plunges to dangerous lows capable of causing hypothermia and widespread infrastructure failures. The area also faces notable exposure to winter and lightning.

Within Wisconsin, Harshaw's risk is, slightly below the 5.4/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Oneida County identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by winter and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Harshaw's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that cold wave exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.