Bloomington Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 107,262 and a calculated risk score of 55.5, Bloomington faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Bloomington, IN. For residents of Bloomington, life moves at its own pace. Unfortunately, nature can be unpredictable in this region. You should be particularly prepared for earthquakes events.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 55.506, Bloomington requires specific preparation. The data highlights Earthquake as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Earthquake risk in Bloomington, Indiana
Bloomington's location near active fault lines makes earthquake preparedness critical for all residents. While seismic retrofitting has improved infrastructure, the potential for a significant magnitude event remains a primary hazard concern for the region.
Bloomington Earthquake Safety
- •Secure heavy furniture and water heaters to wall studs
- •Create a family communication plan for when cell towers fail
- •Keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe
Top Hazards for The Bloomington Area
As part of the wider Indiana region, the threat of earthquakes should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 89.5. Unlike weather events, a earthquake offers no warning, demanding 24/7 readiness.
As part of the wider Indiana region, the threat of tornadoes should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 82.2. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
From a statewide perspective in Indiana, seasonality plays a huge role in the intensity of landslides here. Consequently, our algorithm flags this as a priority area with a calculated intensity of 80.4. Families should have a reunification plan for when an event occurs during work/school hours.
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 →In Bloomington, warning times are minimal. The ground can shift without notice, making immediate physical safety your priority. Your home environment needs to be 'quake-proofed' long before the shaking starts.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Store breakable items in low, latched cabinets.
- 2Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls.
- 3Identify safe spots (under sturdy tables) in each room.
- 4Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe.
- 5Know how to shut off your gas line manually and have the tool nearby.
Essential Gear for Bloomington
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Do not wait for a Earthquake warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis | 90.3 | When compared to Indianapolis, Bloomington is statistically safer. The difference of 34.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Fort Wayne | 80.4 | Choosing between Bloomington and Fort Wayne? Bloomington presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| South Bend | 60.9 | Choosing between Bloomington and South Bend? Bloomington presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Evansville | 85.7 | Choosing between Bloomington and Evansville? Bloomington presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Lafayette | 70.0 | When compared to Lafayette, Bloomington is statistically safer. The difference of 14.5 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Bloomington?
With a risk score of 89.5 for Earthquake, Bloomington is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Earthquake events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Bloomington safer than other cities in Indiana?
It varies by hazard. While Bloomington has its own risk profile (Total Score: 55.5), it is generally comparable to the average in Indiana. 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: 82.2) 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 Indiana?
See the full Indiana Disaster Rankings to see how Bloomington stacks up against other cities in the state.