Lincoln County Disaster Risk
Lincoln County, South Dakota
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
63th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#6
of 66 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
57th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 57% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 65% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 93% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 25% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Lincoln County, South Dakota
Lincoln County's risk ranks above average nationally
With a composite risk score of 62.98, Lincoln County faces above-average natural disaster exposure compared to the national baseline. This "Relatively Low" rating masks significant variation: while the county sits well below the state average of 26.84, individual hazards like tornadoes (93.32) pose outsized threats. Understanding your specific exposures—not just the overall score—helps you prepare appropriately.
Lincoln ranks among South Dakota's highest-risk counties
Lincoln County's composite risk score of 62.98 significantly exceeds South Dakota's state average of 26.84, making it one of the state's more hazard-exposed areas. The county's tornado risk score of 93.32 is particularly acute, reflecting historical patterns in the region. This elevated profile means residents should prioritize hazard awareness and preparedness more than many neighbors statewide.
Lincoln faces higher risks than surrounding counties
Among its neighbors, Lincoln County's composite risk of 62.98 substantially exceeds McCook County (43.45) and Meade County (49.46). Lincoln's tornado risk score of 93.32 dwarfs that of McCook (67.46), signaling a regional hot spot for severe weather. If you're relocating within the region, risk profiles vary considerably over short distances.
Tornadoes and wildfires dominate local hazards
Lincoln County's tornado risk (93.32) represents the county's most acute natural disaster threat, far exceeding state and national norms and warranting safe-room planning and early-warning awareness. Wildfire risk (65.11) ranks as the second major concern, while flood risk (56.62) also exceeds state averages. These three hazards should anchor your household preparedness strategy.
Secure comprehensive coverage for tornado exposure
Lincoln County's exceptional tornado risk demands that homeowners verify their policies explicitly cover wind and hail damage—standard homeowners policies often exclude or limit these coverages. Given the county's elevated wildfire (65.11) and flood (56.62) risks, bundling homeowners, auto, and separate flood insurance provides fuller protection. Review and update your coverage annually, especially after severe weather seasons.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Lincoln County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Lincoln County
Risk Verdict
Lincoln County ranks at the 63th percentile nationally for natural disaster risk — below the median for U.S. counties. Residents are encouraged to understand which hazards dominate locally and tailor their preparedness accordingly.
Hazard Breakdown
Tornado risk is Lincoln County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 93th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Wildfire ranks second at the 65th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (57th percentile), earthquake (25th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Lincoln County ranks at the 93th percentile nationally for tornado exposure. Unlike many slow-onset hazards, tornadoes in Lincoln County can reach full intensity in minutes; a pre-practiced household shelter plan matters far more than stockpiled supplies. The secondary wildfire hazard at the 65th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Lincoln County's preparedness calendar, since wildfire and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. Lincoln County county emergency management typically publishes annual severe-weather preparedness guides tailored to local tornado patterns; households benefit from reviewing these before storm season begins each spring.
Regional Context
Compared to other South Dakota counties, Lincoln County runs 36.1 composite risk points higher than the state mean — reflecting above-average hazard concentration in this area.
Is your household prepared for Lincoln County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Lincoln County, SD?
What types of natural hazards affect Lincoln County?
How does Lincoln County risk compare to the South Dakota average?
Is Lincoln County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Lincoln 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.