Cavalier County Disaster Risk
Cavalier County, North Dakota
FEMA Risk Rating
Very Low
National Percentile
12th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#28
of 53 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
7th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 7% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 53% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 17% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 2% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Cavalier County, North Dakota
Cavalier County enjoys very low disaster risk
With a composite risk score of 11.83, Cavalier County ranks as Very Low—well below the national average. This favorable profile means residents face significantly reduced exposure to major natural disasters compared to most U.S. counties.
Among North Dakota's safest counties
Cavalier County's score of 11.83 sits far below the state average of 22.19, placing it in the lower half of North Dakota risk rankings. This means residents benefit from one of the state's most stable natural hazard environments.
Similar safety profile to surrounding areas
Cavalier County's 11.83 score aligns closely with nearby Dickey County (15.84) and Foster County (7.41), reflecting a consistent low-risk zone across northeastern North Dakota. This regional stability provides reassurance for families and businesses throughout the area.
Wildfire is your primary natural hazard
Wildfire risk at 52.80 is Cavalier County's most significant exposure, though it remains moderate in absolute terms. Tornadoes (16.89) and floods (6.77) pose minimal threats, positioning the county as one of North Dakota's safest communities overall.
Standard coverage meets your needs here
Your low overall risk means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection without costly flood or specialized coverage. Still, wildfire preparedness—maintaining clear brush around your home and having an evacuation plan—remains smart practice for all residents.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Cavalier County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Cavalier County
Risk Verdict
At the 12th percentile nationally, Cavalier County experiences relatively limited natural hazard pressure compared to most of the country. Cavalier County's 12th percentile ranking is favorable, though every county carries at least one natural hazard worth knowing — reviewing the specific risks listed above helps households focus their preparedness where it matters most.
Hazard Breakdown
Wildfire risk is Cavalier County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 53th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 17th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (7th percentile), earthquake (2th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Cavalier County's dominant hazard is wildfire, ranked at the 53th percentile nationally. Maintaining at least 30 feet of lean, clean vegetation around structures in Cavalier County and keeping gutters clear of debris significantly reduces ignition risk from wind-driven embers. Alongside wildfire, tornado at the 17th percentile nationally means a multi-season preparedness mindset — fire season and flood or storm season often require different household plans. Cavalier County's households benefit from reviewing homeowners insurance before fire season, specifically whether the policy covers replacement cost rather than actual cash value, and whether it includes additional living expenses if displacement is required.
Regional Context
A composite score 10.4 points below the North Dakota state average puts Cavalier County in a better-than-typical position relative to neighboring counties.
Is your household prepared for Cavalier County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Cavalier County, ND?
What types of natural hazards affect Cavalier County?
How does Cavalier County risk compare to the North Dakota average?
Is Cavalier County at risk for wildfire?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Is Cavalier 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.