Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 57278
Willow Lake, South Dakota
Risk Summary for ZIP 57278
ZIP 57278 scores 3.9/10 (Low risk), below the U.S. average of 4.5. The leading hazard is Cold Wave.
Top Hazards
All 18 Hazard Scores
How it compares
Live Conditions
🏠 What this means for insurance
Below-average risk — standard coverage likely adequate
Natural disaster risk here is below the US average. Standard homeowners insurance will typically be sufficient, but it is still worth reviewing exclusions for floods and earthquakes.
This is general information only. Consult a licensed insurance professional for advice specific to your property.
Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 57278, South Dakota
ZIP 57278 in Willow Lake sits in the interior eastern United States. Its semi-arid continental climate produces harsh winters, hot summers, and significant seasonal variation, and notably severe blizzards and spring flooding. These conditions define the natural disaster environment for households across this ZIP code.
According to FEMA's National Risk Index, ZIP 57278 carries an overall risk score of 3.9/10, placing it in the low 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 ice storm.
Within South Dakota, ZIP 57278's risk is, slightly below the 4.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks below the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of South Dakota identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by hail and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.
Despite its lower-than-average risk classification, ZIP 57278 is not immune to natural hazards. Basic preparedness — an emergency kit, awareness of seasonal risks, and property insurance that covers cold wave — remains prudent for all residents.
What this means for ZIP 57278: Cold Wave preparedness
- Dress in layers and limit exposure during extreme cold to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
- Protect pipes, pets, and plants, and ensure heating systems are serviced before winter.
- Keep emergency heat and supplies ready in case of cold-related power outages.
Risk for the surrounding area
Local Factors for ZIP 57278
These city-level factors differentiate ZIP 57278 from other communities in South Dakota County and provide geographic context for its hazard exposure.
Population
1,011
Small TownGeographic Zone
Inland
Reduced coastal hazard exposure
Climate Band
Cool Continental
Latitude 44.6°
Flood Terrain
Minimal — county topography limits flood risk
Flood score: 1.0/10
Wildfire Exposure
Moderate — seasonal fire risk
Fire score: 5.7/10
Coordinates
44.6469° N, 97.6823° W
Population and coordinates from SimpleMaps US Cities data. Hazard scores from FEMA National Risk Index. Geographic classification derived from coordinates.
Recent Climate Data for ZIP 57278
Last 12 months · Source: Open-Meteo archive
Notable Weather Days (last 12 months)
Nearby ZIP codes
Other cities in South Dakota
Data source: FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). County-level data applied to ZIP codes within each county. Scores are normalized to 1–10 across all US counties. This information is for general awareness only — consult official emergency management resources and a licensed insurer for property-specific advice.