Marathon County Disaster Risk
Marathon County, Wisconsin
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
87th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#5
of 72 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
88th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 88% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 40% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 84% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 18% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 0% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Marathon County, Wisconsin
Marathon County faces moderate disaster risk
Marathon County's composite risk score of 87.15 substantially exceeds Wisconsin's state average of 59.08 and carries a "Relatively Moderate" rating—the highest classification in this dataset. The county faces notably elevated exposure to flooding, tornadoes, and wildfire combined.
Among Wisconsin's highest-risk counties
At 87.15, Marathon County ranks as one of Wisconsin's riskiest counties, significantly surpassing the state average of 59.08. Only a handful of Wisconsin counties face comparably elevated composite disaster exposure.
Substantially riskier than surrounding areas
Marathon County's 87.15 score far exceeds neighboring Lincoln County (52.64) and Portage County, positioning it as the most hazard-exposed region in central Wisconsin. The elevation reflects the county's particularly acute flood and tornado vulnerabilities.
Flooding and tornadoes compound risk
Flood risk reaches 87.66 in Marathon County—among the highest in the state—while tornado risk of 83.78 creates exceptional dual exposure. Wildfire risk of 40.08 adds a third significant hazard, making Marathon County uniquely vulnerable to multiple disaster types.
Flood insurance is critical here
Marathon County residents face urgent need for comprehensive flood insurance alongside standard homeowners coverage with strong wind/hail protection. The county's elevated exposure across multiple hazard types warrants professional insurance review to ensure adequate limits and coverage—not optional, essential.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Marathon County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Marathon County
Risk Verdict
At the 87th percentile nationally, Marathon County sits in the upper half of U.S. counties for natural disaster exposure. At this risk level, having a documented household preparedness plan — not just awareness — is the meaningful next step for Marathon County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Marathon County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 88th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 84th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (40th percentile), earthquake (18th percentile), hurricane (0th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 88th percentile nationally for flood risk, Marathon County residents benefit from understanding their specific flood zone status. Even one inch of floodwater causes significant structural damage to properties outside officially designated high-risk zones. Secondary tornado exposure at the 84th percentile adds a second preparedness layer; households should review coverage options and alert sign-up for both hazard types. A tested family preparedness plan specific to Marathon County's primary hazards — including how to shelter in place or evacuate, and who to call — provides more real protection than a general emergency kit sitting unused on a shelf.
Regional Context
The Wisconsin county average is 28.1 composite points below Marathon County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Marathon County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Marathon County, WI?
What types of natural hazards affect Marathon County?
How does Marathon County risk compare to the Wisconsin average?
Is Marathon County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Marathon 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.