Cass County Disaster Risk
Cass County, North Dakota
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
82th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#2
of 53 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
81th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 81% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 51% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 90% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 24% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Cass County, North Dakota
Cass County faces above-average disaster risk
With a composite risk score of 82.38, Cass County ranks as Relatively Moderate—significantly higher than the national average. This score reflects the county's exposure to multiple natural hazards, particularly tornadoes and flooding, making it one of North Dakota's most at-risk areas.
Highest risk county in North Dakota
Cass County's composite risk score of 82.38 dwarfs the state average of 22.19, making it the riskiest county in North Dakota by a substantial margin. This elevated risk stems from concentrated tornado and flood exposure across the county's populated areas.
Cass stands apart from surrounding counties
Cass County's risk profile is dramatically different from its neighbors: Emmons County (44.27) and Foster County (7.41) rank far below it. The stark contrast highlights how Cass's geography and weather patterns create uniquely elevated hazard exposure compared to neighboring regions.
Tornadoes and floods dominate your threats
Tornadoes present your most significant risk with a score of 89.69, while floods follow closely at 80.63—both well above typical ranges. Together, these two hazards account for the vast majority of Cass County's composite risk and demand the most attention in emergency preparedness.
Secure flood and tornado coverage now
Given your county's elevated tornado and flood risks, comprehensive homeowners insurance with flood coverage is essential—standard policies don't cover flood damage. Review your coverage today and consider a safe room or shelter plan to protect your family during severe weather events.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Cass County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Cass County
Risk Verdict
Cass County faces a moderate natural disaster risk profile, ranking at the 82th percentile nationally under FEMA's composite risk model. 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 Cass County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 90th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 81th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (51th percentile), earthquake (24th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado risk is Cass County's top-ranked natural hazard at the 90th percentile nationally. For Cass 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. Alongside tornado exposure, flood at the 81th percentile nationally means Cass County households face multi-hazard severe-weather seasons that benefit from a single integrated emergency plan covering both threats. A battery-powered NOAA All Hazards weather radio with an auto-alert tone is the highest-leverage single item for tornado preparedness in Cass County, since it delivers warnings even when power is out and phone networks are congested.
Regional Context
Cass County's composite risk score sits 60.2 points above the North Dakota county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Cass County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Cass County, ND?
What types of natural hazards affect Cass County?
How does Cass County risk compare to the North Dakota average?
Is Cass County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Cass 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.