Otter Tail County Disaster Risk
Otter Tail County, Minnesota
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
79th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#9
of 87 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
83th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 83% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 79% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 84% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 19% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Otter Tail County, Minnesota
Otter Tail faces elevated national risk
Otter Tail County's composite risk score of 79.39 places it in the "Relatively Low" rating but well above the national average. The county's exposure to flooding (83.43), tornadoes (84.16), and wildfire (79.33) makes it one of the nation's more hazard-prone regions.
Among Minnesota's highest-risk counties
At 79.39, Otter Tail County ranks in the top tier statewide, nearly doubling Minnesota's average of 42.38. Only a handful of counties in the state exceed this risk profile.
Significantly riskier than surrounding areas
Otter Tail County faces notably higher risk than neighboring Grant, Douglas, and Pope counties. Its combined flood, tornado, and wildfire exposure is exceptional in the region, positioning it as a hazard concentration area.
Tornadoes, floods, and wildfires all significant
Otter Tail County residents face exceptional tornado risk at 84.16, flood risk at 83.43, and wildfire risk at 79.33—all substantially above state averages. This triple-threat hazard profile requires multi-layered preparedness and protection strategies.
Comprehensive coverage and shelter critical
Otter Tail County residents should maintain flood insurance, wildfire-resistant landscaping, and a designated storm shelter for tornado season. Review homeowners insurance annually to ensure it covers wind, water, and fire damage, and keep emergency supplies accessible year-round.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Otter Tail County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Otter Tail County
Risk Verdict
Otter Tail County has a below-average natural disaster risk profile, scoring at the 79th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. This risk level calls for more than general awareness: insurance coverage review, a family communication plan, and a prepared go-bag are practical priorities.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Otter Tail County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 84th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 83th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (79th percentile), earthquake (19th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado risk is Otter Tail County's top-ranked natural hazard at the 84th percentile nationally. For Otter Tail County households, the most protective action available is identifying a reinforced interior room on the lowest floor — a bathroom, closet, or central hallway away from windows. The secondary flood hazard at the 83th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Otter Tail County's preparedness calendar, since flood and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. A battery-powered NOAA All Hazards weather radio with an auto-alert tone is the highest-leverage single item for tornado preparedness in Otter Tail County, since it delivers warnings even when power is out and phone networks are congested.
Regional Context
Otter Tail County's composite risk score sits 37.0 points above the Minnesota county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Otter Tail County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Otter Tail County, MN?
What types of natural hazards affect Otter Tail County?
How does Otter Tail County risk compare to the Minnesota average?
Is Otter Tail County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Otter Tail County higher risk than average?
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.