Cloud County Disaster Risk
Cloud County, Kansas
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
20th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#55
of 105 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
22th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 62% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 48% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 18% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Cloud County, Kansas
Cloud County ranks low on national risk scale
Cloud County's composite risk score of 20.17 places it below the national average with a "Very Low" rating, reflecting generally modest disaster exposure. The county benefits from a north-central Kansas location that reduces vulnerability to multiple hazard types.
Below-average risk statewide
At 20.17, Cloud County scores significantly below Kansas's state average of 29.89, ranking it among the state's safer communities. This advantage is driven by low flood and earthquake risks, though tornado exposure remains moderate by state standards.
Safer than most surrounding counties
Cloud County's risk profile outperforms nearby Mitchell and Ottawa Counties, which face higher tornado and flood exposure. Its north-central location provides moderate protection from the severe weather patterns affecting eastern and southern Kansas.
Tornado and wildfire pose main threats
Tornado risk scores 47.87 in Cloud County, the county's most significant hazard, while wildfire risk reaches 62.12. Together, these threats account for the majority of the county's disaster exposure.
Prioritize tornado and wildfire coverage
Homeowners should ensure strong tornado and wind protection coverage in addition to wildfire safeguards in their property insurance. A designated safe room and regular property inspections help mitigate the county's primary weather-related threats.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Cloud County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Cloud County
Risk Verdict
At the 20th percentile nationally, Cloud County experiences relatively limited natural hazard pressure compared to most of the country. At the 20th percentile nationally, Cloud County's natural hazard profile is comparatively favorable — community resilience is reinforced when individual households maintain a reviewed emergency plan.
Hazard Breakdown
Wildfire risk is Cloud County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 62th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 48th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (22th percentile), earthquake (18th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Cloud County's dominant hazard is wildfire, ranked at the 62th percentile nationally. Maintaining at least 30 feet of lean, clean vegetation around structures in Cloud County and keeping gutters clear of debris significantly reduces ignition risk from wind-driven embers. The county's tornado exposure at the 48th percentile nationally complements the wildfire risk — saturating rain after burn scarring often triggers secondary flood and debris flow events. Cloud County's households benefit from reviewing homeowners insurance before fire season, specifically whether the policy covers replacement cost rather than actual cash value, and whether it includes additional living expenses if displacement is required.
Regional Context
A composite score 9.7 points below the Kansas state average puts Cloud County in a better-than-typical position relative to neighboring counties.
Is your household prepared for Cloud County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Cloud County, KS?
What types of natural hazards affect Cloud County?
How does Cloud County risk compare to the Kansas average?
Is Cloud County at risk for wildfire?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Cloud County a safe place to live?
Data Source
Risk data sourced from the FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). Risk scores are relative rankings (0–100) across all US counties — not absolute risk measures. Higher scores indicate higher relative risk compared to other counties.
Disclaimer: This data is informational only. It is not financial, insurance, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making insurance or real estate decisions.