Broadwater County Disaster Risk
Broadwater County, Montana
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
18th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#32
of 56 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
19th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 19% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 73% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 5% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 75% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Broadwater County, Montana
Broadwater ranks among the nation's lowest-risk counties
Broadwater County's composite risk score of 17.68 places it in the Very Low category and significantly below the national average. This exceptional rating reflects below-average exposure to most natural hazards, though the county does face above-average earthquake and wildfire risks.
Montana's safest county overall
Broadwater County ranks as the lowest-risk county in Montana with a composite score of 17.68, far below the state average of 33.31. The county's Very Low overall risk rating makes it among the most disaster-resilient communities in the state.
Significantly safer than surrounding counties
Broadwater's composite risk score (17.68) is less than half that of neighboring Beaverhead (42.88) and Chouteau (39.47), reflecting notably lower flood risk (19.08). Its earthquake risk (74.87) remains moderate compared to Beaverhead (85.66) but higher than most non-seismic regions.
Earthquakes and wildfires pose modest threats
Despite Broadwater's very low overall risk, residents should remain aware of earthquake risk (74.87) and wildfire risk (72.90), which are elevated relative to the county's otherwise benign profile. Flood risk (19.08) and tornado risk (5.12) are exceptionally low by state and national standards.
Add earthquake coverage for peace of mind
Broadwater's low overall risk means a standard homeowners policy covers most common scenarios, but adding earthquake insurance is prudent given the county's 74.87 earthquake exposure. Maintain basic wildfire awareness and defensible space, but your disaster risk is substantially lower than most Montana counties.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Broadwater County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Broadwater County
Risk Verdict
Broadwater County carries a low natural disaster risk burden, scoring at the 18th percentile under the FEMA National Risk Index. Being ranked at the 18th percentile nationally is an advantage for Broadwater County — it means fewer statistically likely events, though basic readiness ensures households are covered when exceptions occur.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Broadwater County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 75th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Wildfire ranks second at the 73th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (19th percentile), tornado (5th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Broadwater County's primary hazard, earthquake, ranks at the 75th percentile nationally. Unreinforced masonry structures carry the highest injury risk during seismic events; residents in older buildings should check with their municipality about available seismic retrofit programs. The county's wildfire risk at the 73th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. After a major earthquake, Broadwater County residents should expect water service disruption for 24 to 72 or more hours. Storing a minimum of one gallon per person per day for three days — before any event — is the most direct preparedness action households can take.
Regional Context
Compared to the Montana county average, Broadwater County's composite score runs 15.6 points lower — a gap that reflects the county's relatively modest hazard profile within its state context.
Is your household prepared for Broadwater County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Broadwater County, MT?
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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.