Boone County Disaster Risk
Boone County, Nebraska
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
43th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#18
of 93 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
32th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 32% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 43% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 52% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 13% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Boone County, Nebraska
Boone County faces moderate tornado risk
With a composite risk score of 43.35, Boone County rates as relatively low nationally but well above Nebraska's state average of 25.80. Tornadoes (51.97) and flooding (32.03) combine to elevate the county's overall profile.
Moderate tornado and flood threat
Boone County's composite score of 43.35 places it mid-range for Nebraska; its tornado risk of 51.97 is above-average statewide, and flood risk of 32.03 is a notable secondary concern. Together, these hazards outpace the county's wildfire and earthquake risks.
Riskier than western county neighbors
Boone County's score of 43.35 is substantially higher than Arthur County (0.29), Banner County (0.80), and Blaine County (0.45), reflecting its eastern location in Nebraska's more active weather zone. It ranks somewhat below Adams County (64.31).
Tornadoes and flooding top concerns
Tornadoes (51.97) present the greatest risk, followed closely by flooding (32.03)—both hazards frequently strike central Nebraska. Wildfire (43.10) and earthquake (12.95) threats are comparatively minor.
Ensure comprehensive storm coverage
Comprehensive homeowners insurance with tornado, wind, and hail riders is essential for Boone County residents. Consider flood insurance separately through the National Flood Insurance Program if you're in or near a floodplain; standard policies exclude flood damage entirely.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Boone County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Boone County
Risk Verdict
With a national percentile rank of 43th, Boone County faces below-average hazard exposure relative to U.S. counties as a whole. The 43th percentile national ranking is one lens; Boone County residents also benefit from reviewing which specific hazard types drive the county's composite score and preparing accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Boone County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 52th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Wildfire ranks second at the 43th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (32th percentile), earthquake (13th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 52th percentile nationally for tornado risk, Boone County households benefit most from a reliable alert system — a NOAA weather radio that activates during overnight hours when residents may not be checking smartphone alerts. The secondary wildfire hazard at the 43th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Boone County's preparedness calendar, since wildfire and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. For Boone County households, a pre-decided family shelter plan — who goes where, how children are retrieved from school during a warning, and a neighborhood meet-up point if phones fail — provides real protection that no supply kit alone can replicate.
Regional Context
At 17.6 points above the Nebraska state average, Boone County carries meaningfully higher natural disaster exposure than a typical Nebraska county.
Is your household prepared for Boone County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Boone County, NE?
What types of natural hazards affect Boone County?
How does Boone County risk compare to the Nebraska average?
Is Boone County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Boone 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.