Winnebago County Disaster Risk
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
87th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#6
of 72 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
89th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 89% 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 91% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Very Low
Higher than 33% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 17% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Winnebago faces significant risk
Winnebago County scores 86.83 on the composite risk index, placing it in the relatively moderate risk category and 47% above Wisconsin's state average of 59.08. The county ranks among Wisconsin's highest-risk communities for natural disasters.
Top-tier risk statewide
Winnebago ranks at the very top of Wisconsin's risk tier, exceeded only by a handful of counties. Multiple high-impact hazards converge here, particularly tornado and flood exposure.
Winnebago's risk stands apart
Winnebago's composite score of 86.83 closely parallels Waukesha County (88.87) as among the state's riskiest. It significantly exceeds surrounding Waupaca County (67.59) and Waushara County (43.26).
Tornado and flood risks peak here
Tornado risk reaches 91.25 in Winnebago—among Wisconsin's highest threat levels—while flood risk scores 89.34, affecting major urban and surrounding areas. Wildfire risk (40.17) poses secondary concern.
Comprehensive insurance is mandatory
Winnebago residents must secure robust homeowners insurance with strong wind and tornado protection. Flood insurance is critical for the county's extensive flood-prone zones; don't assume you're safe without professional assessment of your property's flood risk.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Winnebago County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Winnebago County
Risk Verdict
Winnebago County faces a moderate natural disaster risk profile, ranking at the 87th 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 Winnebago County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 91th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Flood ranks second at the 89th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include wildfire (40th percentile), earthquake (33th percentile), hurricane (17th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Tornado risk is Winnebago County's top-ranked natural hazard at the 91th percentile nationally. For Winnebago 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. Flood is the second hazard driver for Winnebago County at the 89th percentile nationally, meaning households should maintain awareness of both severe-weather and flood-specific warning systems. A battery-powered NOAA All Hazards weather radio with an auto-alert tone is the highest-leverage single item for tornado preparedness in Winnebago County, since it delivers warnings even when power is out and phone networks are congested.
Regional Context
Winnebago County's composite risk score sits 27.7 points above the Wisconsin county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Winnebago County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Winnebago County, WI?
What types of natural hazards affect Winnebago County?
How does Winnebago County risk compare to the Wisconsin average?
Is Winnebago County at risk for tornado?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Winnebago 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.