Duluth Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 120,443 and a calculated risk score of 57.1, Duluth faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Duluth, MN. Life in Duluth comes with its own set of rewards. However, FEMA data points to some underlying risks. Your emergency plan should definitely account for lightning.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Duluth a Risk Score of 57.117 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Lightning and Landslide.
Top Hazards for The Duluth Area
Meteorological data for Minnesota confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating lightning. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 96.7. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Historically, the climate of Minnesota dictates that historical precedents show that landslides are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 90.5. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
Regional data for Minnesota suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of wildfire. Consequently, the data-driven score of 86.1 underscores the need for preparedness. Community Fire Safe Councils offer specific resources for neighborhood preparedness.
Monitor Active Threats
Duluth has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Duluth? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Duluth
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Duluth. 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 Duluth
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
Pets
PetBonus Collapsible Dog Bowls
Collapsible bowls for easy packing. Hydration is critical for pets during stress.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Lightning now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | 93.7 | Choosing between Duluth and Minneapolis? Duluth presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| St. Paul | 88.7 | Choosing between Duluth and St. Paul? Duluth presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Rochester | 72.7 | Rochester and Duluth share similar regional risks, but our data gives Duluth the edge in overall safety. |
| St. Cloud | 72.8 | St. Cloud and Duluth share similar regional risks, but our data gives Duluth the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Duluth?
With a risk score of 96.7 for Lightning, Duluth is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Duluth safer than other cities in Minnesota?
It varies by hazard. While Duluth has its own risk profile (Total Score: 57.1), it is generally comparable to the average in Minnesota. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Duluth given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 90.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Duluth is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Duluth compare to other cities in Minnesota?
See the full Minnesota Disaster Rankings to see how Duluth stacks up against other cities in the state.