Caldwell County Disaster Risk
Caldwell County, Missouri
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
14th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#108
of 115 (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 45% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 38% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 25% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 0% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Caldwell County, Missouri
Caldwell ranks among safest counties
Caldwell County's composite risk score of 14.41 places it among the nation's lowest-risk counties with a Very Low rating. This exceptional safety profile reflects minimal exposure to major natural disasters.
Missouri's lowest-risk county
Caldwell's score of 14.41 is the lowest in Missouri and dramatically below the state average of 50.56. Caldwell residents enjoy one of the safest natural disaster profiles in the entire state.
Safest in its region by far
Caldwell's score of 14.41 dwarfs nearby Callaway County (63.93) and Boone County (85.75). It stands as the clear safety leader among all its neighboring counties.
Wildfire emerges as top concern
Wildfire risk scores 45.39 in Caldwell, the county's highest hazard, though still modest in absolute terms. Tornadoes rank second at 37.66, while flood, earthquake, and hurricane risks remain minimal.
Standard coverage provides solid protection
Caldwell's Very Low composite risk rating means a standard homeowners policy typically provides adequate coverage for most residents. Focus on maintaining basic preparedness and ensure your roof and gutters are fire-resistant given the wildfire score of 45.39.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Caldwell County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Caldwell County
Risk Verdict
Caldwell County's overall natural disaster score at the 14th percentile puts it well below the national median for hazard exposure. A 14th percentile score positions Caldwell County among the nation's lower-risk counties, a genuinely favorable outcome — one that simple, low-cost preparedness habits can reinforce further.
Hazard Breakdown
Wildfire risk is Caldwell County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 45th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 38th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (25th percentile), flood (22th percentile), hurricane (0th percentile).
Preparedness Context
With wildfire ranked at the 45th percentile nationally, Caldwell County is in a zone where air quality can deteriorate rapidly before structures are threatened. An N95 respirator and a HEPA air purifier are practical items for Caldwell County households to have on hand before fire season. Alongside wildfire, tornado at the 38th percentile nationally means a multi-season preparedness mindset — fire season and flood or storm season often require different household plans. Defensible space, insurance review, and an evacuation plan are the three preparedness pillars for Caldwell County households — and the insurance review is the one most often deferred by Caldwell County residents and most costly to skip when a fire event actually occurs.
Regional Context
Caldwell County's composite risk score sits 36.1 points below the Missouri county average, reflecting a more favorable hazard environment than the state typical.
Is your household prepared for Caldwell County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Caldwell County, MO?
What types of natural hazards affect Caldwell County?
How does Caldwell County risk compare to the Missouri average?
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How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Caldwell 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.