Centennial Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 107,386 and a calculated risk score of 91.8, Centennial faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Centennial, CO. For residents of Centennial, life moves at its own pace. Unfortunately, nature can be unpredictable in this region. You should be particularly prepared for tornadoes events.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Centennial sits at a Risk Score of 91.838. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Tornado and Lightning.
Tornado risk in Centennial, Colorado
Centennial is susceptible to severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes. Weather patterns in this region can generate sudden rotational storms that give residents very little warning time compared to other hazards.
Centennial Tornado Safety
- •Identify an interior room without windows on the lowest floor
- •Monitor NOAA weather radio during spring storm season
- •Clear yard of potential projectiles before storms arrive
Top Hazards for The Centennial Area
In the broader context of Colorado's climate, tornadoes represent a significant vector of concern for Centennial. Furthermore, recent climate normals and historical event data contribute to this elevated score of 97.4. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a tornado strains the power grid.
Considering the historical weather trends in Colorado, data indicates that Centennial has a higher-than-average exposure to lightning. It is important to note that this metric (score: 87.0) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Historically, the climate of Colorado dictates that historical precedents show that ice storms are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 85.4. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Centennial has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Centennial? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Centennial
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Centennial, severe storms can spin up quickly. You need a safe, windowless location and a way to receive alerts when the power grid fails.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Secure outdoor furniture that could become projectiles.
- 2Keep a whistle in your kit to signal for help if trapped.
- 3Wear a helmet (bike or construction) to protect from debris.
- 4Have a weather radio with a battery backup to receive alerts.
- 5Identify a basement or interior room without windows as your shelter.
Essential Gear for Centennial
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.
The best insurance against Tornado is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Denver | 90.3 | Choosing between Centennial and Denver? Centennial presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Colorado Springs | 91.0 | Colorado Springs and Centennial share similar regional risks, but our data gives Colorado Springs the edge in overall safety. |
| Aurora | 91.8 | Choosing between Centennial and Aurora? Centennial presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Fort Collins | 90.9 | Choosing between Centennial and Fort Collins? Centennial presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Lakewood | 92.5 | When compared to Lakewood, Centennial is statistically safer. The difference of 0.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Centennial?
With a risk score of 97.4 for Tornado, Centennial is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Tornado events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Centennial safer than other cities in Colorado?
It varies by hazard. While Centennial has its own risk profile (Total Score: 91.8), it is among the higher-risk areas in Colorado. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Centennial given the risk of Lightning?
Every city has risks. The threat of Lightning (Score: 87.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Centennial is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Centennial compare to other cities in Colorado?
See the full Colorado Disaster Rankings to see how Centennial stacks up against other cities in the state.