Bismarck Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 99,060 and a calculated risk score of 70.2, Bismarck faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Bismarck, ND. Settling down in Bismarck connects you to a vibrant community. However, it also comes with specific weather patterns. Specifically, the area has a heightened risk of winter weather.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Bismarck sits at a Risk Score of 70.244. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Winter Weather and Ice Storm.
Winter storm risk in Bismarck, North Dakota
Severe winter weather and ice storms pose a unique threat to Bismarck, potentially causing extended power outages and hazardous road conditions. Infrastructure in the area may be vulnerable to heavy ice accumulation.
Bismarck Winter Grid Failure Prep
- •Have a safe, indoor-rated backup heat source
- •Insulate pipes and know how to shut off main water valve
- •Keep a backup battery bank for charging phones
Top Hazards for The Bismarck Area
Meteorological data for North Dakota confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating winter weather. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 98.2. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
When analyzing the risk profile of North Dakota, Bismarck's geography makes it particularly susceptible to ice storm risks. Crucially, we've weighted historical incidence rates to arrive at a localized risk verification of 94.3. Surge protectors and whole-home backup solutions are increasingly popular investments.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of North Dakota reveal, Bismarck faces a critical challenge with tornado events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 85.4, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Bismarck has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Bismarck? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Bismarck
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Bismarck. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for Bismarck
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
The best insurance against Winter Weather is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Fargo | 86.0 | When compared to Fargo, Bismarck is statistically safer. The difference of 15.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Winter Weathers in Bismarck?
With a risk score of 98.2 for Winter Weather, Bismarck is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Winter Weather events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Bismarck safer than other cities in North Dakota?
It varies by hazard. While Bismarck has its own risk profile (Total Score: 70.2), it is generally comparable to the average in North Dakota. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Bismarck given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 94.3) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Bismarck is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Bismarck compare to other cities in North Dakota?
See the full North Dakota Disaster Rankings to see how Bismarck stacks up against other cities in the state.