Manitowoc County Disaster Risk
Manitowoc County, Wisconsin
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
69th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#27
of 72 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
70th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 70% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 19% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 77% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 25% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin
Manitowoc County faces elevated tornado risk
Manitowoc County's composite risk score of 68.92 exceeds Wisconsin's state average of 59.08, though it maintains a "Relatively Low" national rating. The elevation is driven primarily by exceptional tornado exposure and significant flood risk from its Lake Michigan location.
Above-average hazard exposure statewide
At 68.92, Manitowoc County ranks notably above Wisconsin's 59.08 state average, placing it in the higher-risk segment of the state's counties. The county faces compound threats from tornadoes, flooding, and hurricane exposure that elevate overall exposure.
Tornados hit harder here than neighbors
Manitowoc County's score of 68.92 exceeds nearby Sheboygan County and significantly outpaces Ozaukee County, reflecting its unique exposure to Lake Michigan storm systems. The county's coastal position amplifies both tornado and hurricane risks compared to inland neighbors.
Tornadoes and flooding dominate threats
Tornado risk reaches a striking 77.26 in Manitowoc County—the highest single hazard threat—while flood risk of 69.66 reflects vulnerability to both riverine and coastal water events. Hurricane risk of 21.74 adds a third significant hazard layer unique among inland Wisconsin counties.
Comprehensive coverage is essential
Manitowoc County residents should ensure homeowners insurance includes robust wind/hail coverage for tornado protection and strongly consider flood insurance given the county's elevated flood exposure. Given the compounded hazard profile, reviewing coverage annually with an agent familiar with coastal Wisconsin risks is prudent.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Manitowoc County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Manitowoc County
Risk Verdict
Manitowoc County ranks at the 69th 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 Manitowoc County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 77th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 70th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include earthquake (25th percentile), hurricane (22th percentile), wildfire (19th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Manitowoc County ranks at the 77th percentile nationally for tornado exposure. Unlike many slow-onset hazards, tornadoes in Manitowoc County can reach full intensity in minutes; a pre-practiced household shelter plan matters far more than stockpiled supplies. The secondary flood hazard at the 70th percentile nationally adds seasonal complexity to Manitowoc County's preparedness calendar, since flood and tornado risk often peak at different points in the year. Manitowoc 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 Wisconsin counties, Manitowoc County runs 9.8 composite risk points higher than the state mean — reflecting above-average hazard concentration in this area.
Is your household prepared for Manitowoc County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Manitowoc County, WI?
What types of natural hazards affect Manitowoc County?
How does Manitowoc County risk compare to the Wisconsin average?
Is Manitowoc County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Manitowoc 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.