Bloomington Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 133,107 and a calculated risk score of 72.2, Bloomington faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Bloomington, IL. Living in Bloomington offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has unique set of risks. The most significant threat to be aware of is heat waves.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Bloomington sits at a Risk Score of 72.236. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Heat Wave and Tornado.
Top Hazards for The Bloomington Area
Observing the seasonal cycles typical of Illinois, heat waves constitute a major variable in the local quality of life equations. Moreover weighted against regional averages, this score of 94.1 is statistically significant. For new residents, understanding the severity of heat waves in their specific zip code is vital.
Looking at the long-term climate history of Illinois, resilience against tornadoes is a key aspect of local safety. Therefore, we calculate a specific index of 90.0, indicating a substantial threat level. Staying off the roads during a severe tornado event is the safest choice.
Observing the seasonal cycles typical of Illinois, earthquakes constitute a major variable in the local quality of life equations. Moreover weighted against regional averages, this score of 87.2 is statistically significant. Having an out-of-area contact is crucial when local communication lines inevitably fail.
Monitor Active Threats
Bloomington has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Bloomington? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Bloomington
Read the Full Guide →Extreme heat is a silent killer in Bloomington. It stresses the power grid and the human body. Your survival strategy should revolve around hydration, cooling, and backup power.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Know the location of your nearest cooling center.
- 2Have a backup power source for fans or medical devices.
- 3Cover windows with reflective material to keep heat out.
- 4Monitor local weather for 'Wet Bulb' temperature warnings.
- 5Store electrolyte powder in your kit, not just plain water.
Essential Gear for Bloomington
Water
Scepter 2.5 Gallon Water Container
Lighter and easier to carry than the 5-gallon version.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
The best insurance against Heat Wave is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago | 99.5 | Chicago and Bloomington share similar regional risks, but our data gives Bloomington the edge in overall safety. |
| Rockford | 85.4 | When compared to Rockford, Bloomington is statistically safer. The difference of 13.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Peoria | 78.0 | Choosing between Bloomington and Peoria? Bloomington presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Round Lake Beach | 90.9 | Round Lake Beach and Bloomington share similar regional risks, but our data gives Bloomington the edge in overall safety. |
| Aurora | 85.9 | Choosing between Bloomington and Aurora? Bloomington presents a lower overall risk profile. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Heat Waves in Bloomington?
With a risk score of 94.1 for Heat Wave, Bloomington is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Heat Wave events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Bloomington safer than other cities in Illinois?
It varies by hazard. While Bloomington has its own risk profile (Total Score: 72.2), it is generally comparable to the average in Illinois. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Bloomington given the risk of Tornado?
Every city has risks. The threat of Tornado (Score: 90.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Bloomington is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Bloomington compare to other cities in Illinois?
See the full Illinois Disaster Rankings to see how Bloomington stacks up against other cities in the state.