Joliet Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 149,785 and a calculated risk score of 90.6, Joliet faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Joliet, IL. Joliet is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that tornadoes rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Joliet a Risk Score of 90.622 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Tornado and Heat Wave.
Tornado risk in Joliet, Illinois
Joliet 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.
Joliet 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 Joliet Area
In terms of regional hazard exposure in Illinois, the proximity to specific terrain features amplifies the tornado risk. It is important to note that this value of 99.2 serves as a benchmark for local insurance and safety planning. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Given the environmental patterns common in Illinois, the potential for heat waves in Joliet stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 98.5 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Across the diverse landscape of Illinois, lightning preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 95.8 is derived from granular local inputs. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a lightning strains the power grid.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Joliet? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Joliet
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Joliet, 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
- 1Prepare for secondary heat waves if power is lost.
- 2Secure outdoor furniture that could become projectiles.
- 3Keep a whistle in your kit to signal for help if trapped.
- 4Wear a helmet (bike or construction) to protect from debris.
- 5Have a weather radio with a battery backup to receive alerts.
Essential Gear for Joliet
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago | 99.5 | When compared to Chicago, Joliet is statistically safer. The difference of 8.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Rockford | 85.4 | Choosing between Joliet and Rockford? Joliet presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Peoria | 78.0 | Peoria and Joliet share similar regional risks, but our data gives Peoria the edge in overall safety. |
| Round Lake Beach | 90.9 | When compared to Round Lake Beach, Joliet is statistically safer. The difference of 0.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Aurora | 85.9 | Aurora and Joliet share similar regional risks, but our data gives Aurora the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Joliet?
With a risk score of 99.2 for Tornado, Joliet 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 Joliet safer than other cities in Illinois?
It varies by hazard. While Joliet has its own risk profile (Total Score: 90.6), it is among the higher-risk areas in Illinois. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Joliet given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 98.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Joliet is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Joliet compare to other cities in Illinois?
See the full Illinois Disaster Rankings to see how Joliet stacks up against other cities in the state.