Des Moines Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 560,170 and a calculated risk score of 87.5, Des Moines faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Des Moines, IA. Settling down in Des Moines means embracing the local culture. However, it also comes with specific weather patterns. Specifically, the area has a heightened risk of tornadoes.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Des Moines a Risk Score of 87.535 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Tornado and Winter Weather.
Tornado risk in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines 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.
Des Moines 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 Des Moines Area
Comparisons of local data to the rest of Iowa reveal, Des Moines faces a critical challenge with tornado events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 98.3, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Meteorological data for Iowa 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 95.5. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
In the broader context of Iowa's climate, landslides represent a significant vector of concern for Des Moines. Furthermore, recent climate normals and historical event data contribute to this elevated score of 88.2. A 'drop, cover, and hold on' drill should be practiced by every family member annually.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Des Moines has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Des Moines? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Des Moines
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Des Moines, 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 Des Moines
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.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Tornado now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Davenport | 73.4 | Davenport and Des Moines share similar regional risks, but our data gives Davenport the edge in overall safety. |
| Cedar Rapids | 88.2 | Cedar Rapids and Des Moines share similar regional risks, but our data gives Des Moines the edge in overall safety. |
| Iowa City | 89.8 | Iowa City and Des Moines share similar regional risks, but our data gives Des Moines the edge in overall safety. |
| Waterloo | 75.5 | Choosing between Des Moines and Waterloo? Des Moines presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Sioux City | 76.3 | When compared to Sioux City, Des Moines is slightly higher risk. The difference of 11.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Des Moines?
With a risk score of 98.3 for Tornado, Des Moines 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 Des Moines safer than other cities in Iowa?
It varies by hazard. While Des Moines has its own risk profile (Total Score: 87.5), it is generally comparable to the average in Iowa. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Des Moines given the risk of Winter Weather?
Every city has risks. The threat of Winter Weather (Score: 95.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Des Moines is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Des Moines compare to other cities in Iowa?
See the full Iowa Disaster Rankings to see how Des Moines stacks up against other cities in the state.