Natural Disaster Risk in Stoughton

Natural Hazard Profile: Stoughton, Wisconsin

Stoughton, in Dane County, is a city of approximately 19,550 residents situated in the interior eastern 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 Stoughton residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Stoughton carries an overall risk score of 7.6/10, placing it in the high 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 hail and tornado.

Within Wisconsin, Stoughton's risk is, considerably above the 5.4/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Dane County identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by hail and tornado. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Stoughton's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.