Natural Disaster Risk in Ten Sleep

Natural Hazard Profile: Ten Sleep, Wyoming

Ten Sleep, in Washakie County, is a small community of about 788 situated in the Great Plains. Its semi-arid climate brings high winds, cold winters, and significant snowfall at elevation, and in particular blizzards and rapid weather changes. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Ten Sleep residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Ten Sleep carries an overall risk score of 4.7/10, placing it in the moderate category. Landslide and debris flow risk tops the local hazard profile, with steep terrain and periodic heavy rainfall creating conditions for rapid slope failure in vulnerable areas. The area also faces notable exposure to volcano and avalanche.

Within Wyoming, Ten Sleep's risk is, slightly below the 5.3/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Washakie County identifies landslide as the foremost hazard, followed by volcano and avalanche. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Ten Sleep'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 landslide exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.